Ronaldo: Why I’m staying at the club I love

Ian Watson

Cristiano Ronaldo insists he wants to stay at Real Madrid, saying “I love this club”.

Ronaldo’s future has been the source of widespread speculation once again, with recent reports suggesting he wanted to leave the European champions over a contract dispute.

Former club Manchester United and big-spending Paris St Germain have been touted as possible destinations for the 32-year-old Portugal international, but Ronaldo insists he is happy at the Bernabeu.

Asked if he likes living in Madrid, Ronaldo said: “Of course I like living here. I’ve lived in this city since 2009 and I love the weather and the people.

“It’s close to Portugal and you can get there by car. Spain is a great country, I love it.

“Of course I want to stay here, I love this club.”

Looking to the future, Ronaldo – who is under contract at the Bernabeu until 2021 – admits his original aim to continue playing until he is 41 might now be unrealistic after having four children.

Madrid’s all-time record goalscorer also said he does not see himself going into coaching when he does finally hang up his boots.

He told Chinese football app Dongqiudi in quotes reported by the Spanish media: “This feeling is incredible. It’s what I’ve always dreamed of.

“Now, my plan to retire at 41 will probably be a bit more difficult to achieve, and now we live in the moment.”

He added: “Being a coach is not part of my plan, but you also know that people change their minds. For the moment I don’t want to be a coach.”