Cristiano Ronaldo is keen to play until he’s 40 but he will retire once the physique wears off, the Portuguese manager claims

CRISTIANO RONALDO will play until he is 40 – but will stop once his body slows down, according to Portugal coach Fernando Santos.

The 37-year-old Manchester United star has dominated the headlines in recent months as he attempted to force a move from Old Trafford before now infamously refusing to come on as a substitute against Tottenham.

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However, Santos has revealed that Ronaldo will keep playing until his physical level finally drops.

In 2020, Santos told TVI24: “Cristiano is ready to play until he’s 40 but he doesn’t know if it’s going to happen.

“At some point he might feel like he’s not on the same terms anymore.

“He’s not a player who lowers his level, if he feels he can’t be Ronaldo he won’t.”

Ronaldo was surprisingly handed the armband as the Red Devils suffered a 3-1 defeat at Villa Park on Sunday.

He has been a starting XI in each of United’s last four games but Erik ten Hag seems happy to let him go early next year.

A report this week has also claimed that a Sporting Lisbon return could be on the cards.

The veteran is also preparing for what will likely be his last World Cup with Portugal this month.

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But one thing is for sure, Ronaldo has no plans to retire anytime soon – and his incredibly detailed fitness plan makes it all possible.

In 2020, Ronaldo revealed his desire to play until he was 40 after celebrating his 35th birthday.

When asked how long he can last, the Portuguese icon told Marca: “A lot will depend on how I feel, on my motivation.

“Physically it will never be a problem.

“I treat myself well and I think I can play safely up to 40 years.

“The most important factor, honestly, will be more psychological – that’s going to make the difference.

“Anyway, everything has a beginning and an end. I won’t last a lifetime, but I still feel strong enough to keep winning. I’ll quit if I don’t have an incentive.”