Top 5 clubs where Cristiano Ronaldo could end his career

Portugal v France - Final: UEFA Euro 2016
Ronaldo kissing the UEFA Euro 2016 trophy

Cristiano Ronaldo has achieved almost everything in his career. Besides lifting 14 domestic trophies during his stays with Manchester United and Real Madrid, he has also won the Champions League an impressive four times.

In 2016, he even led Portugal's national team to an unlikely victory at the European Championships. Something, that even Portuguese legends Eusebio and Luis Figo couldn't do at the top of their game.

On top of that, the list of individual accolades seems endless. It is quite telling, that the Portuguese has featured in every UEFA Team of the Year since 2007, while adding five Ballon d'Ors in the process.

With Ronaldo turning 33 in February, his time at the pinnacle of the sport is slowly nearing its end. Therefore, it is time to take a look at which five destinations seem the most likely for the striker to close out his illustrious career.


#1 Real Madrid

Real Madrid CF v VfL Wolfsburg - UEFA Champions League Quarter Final: Second Leg
Ronaldo performing his trademark celebration in the Champions League

Unsurprisingly, Ronaldo's current employer could also be his last. The Portuguese's current contract expires in 2021 and, should he see it out, 36 would be an age where he could consider retiring.

Despite constantly adapting his game, most notably by transforming into a striker at Real Madrid after making a name for himself as a winger, Ronaldo's game has always revolved around his blistering pace and physical prowess, attributes that decline with age.

However, the forward is constantly linked with several clubs during almost every transfer window. Along with ongoing contract issues, Ronaldo is reported to be unhappy at the Spanish giants as of late and could be looking for a new club sooner rather than later.

#2 Manchester United

Manchester United v Arsenal - Premier League
Ronaldo lifted the Premier League trophy three times with the Red Devils

The never-ending story. Since Ronaldo's departure from Old Trafford, almost no year has passed without reports about him wanting to return to the Theatre of Dreams.

The former United-winger had a rough start to his career in Manchester, but once he found his footing he became a crowd favourite in no time.

United has seemed willing to splash the cash to make a return possible, but for various reasons, a deal has failed to be finalized.

Although Jose Mourinho has multiple attacking options at his display, United fans would love nothing more than to see Cristiano wearing that famous number seven one last time.

#3 Miami

Day Five: The Championships - Wimbledon 2017
Looking to build his team around the Portuguese hitman: David Beckham

The first wild-card on this list, as this team isn't even in existence yet. However, should the Portuguese forward be willing to try his luck overseas, Miami seems the most likely destination.

David Beckham's newly-founded franchise is supposed to join the MLS during its expansion from 23 to 28 teams, pending approval by the League.

Miami could interest Ronaldo for various reasons. On the one hand, it would give him the opportunity to expand his CR7 brand in the US, while still being an active player. On the other hand, Miami is a hotspot for celebrities and, knowing Cristiano, the Florida sunshine won't do Miami's chances any harm either.

#4 Paris Saint-Germain

Metz v Paris Saint Germain - Ligue 1
Already a fearsome trio: Cavani, Mbappe and Neymar

Like Manchester United, the French club has been chasing after Ronaldo for quite a while now. Especially last summer the transfer appeared to be sealed when the Portuguese international apparently met with club boss Nasser Al-Khalaifi.

The record-breaking signing of Neymar last summer could have signalled the end of the Parisians' pursuit of Ronaldo, although recent reports claim that PSG still has a firm interest in acquiring their long-time transfer target.

PSG would arguably be prepared to offer Ronaldo the largest paycheck, a factor that is not to be under-estimated when facing retirement. Despite his brands running well at the moment, the Portuguese could still be tempted to milk the Parisian cash cow.

#5 Sporting Lisbon

"Cristiano, a good son comes back home... are you delayed?"

Probably the most romantic of all scenarios, a return to Lisbon would be the most heart-warming move the superstar could make. Sporting provided Ronaldo with the platform to develop into who he is today and they are still hoping for a return of their "lost son".

Considering their lack of financial power, Sporting's attempt to lure their former winger back to the club may seem comical. However, should Ronaldo be willing to sacrifice a portion of his wages, they would welcome him back with open arms.

The Portuguese, on the other hand, has demonstrated time and time again what his country means to him. Besides his determination, while performing for the national team, Ronaldo's hometown Funchal on the island Madeira is slowly evolving into "Cristiano Ronaldo Town".

Alongside the infamous statue, there is also the CR7 museum and even Madeira's airport is named after him. Of course, money is a huge factor but the Portuguese certainly has a soft spot for his home country.

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