Cristiano Ronaldo was unequivocal when, on the eve of Portugal's World Cup play-off final game, he was asked about retiring from international football.
“I'm the one who will decide my future, no-one else,” said Ronaldo. “If I feel like playing more, I'll play. If not, I don't play. I'm in charge, period.” Although the question was related to his international career, if Ronaldo has no intention of calling it a day with Portugal, after 185 caps and 115 goals, it is fair to say his club career has a few more chapters to run, too.
The accepted wisdom is that if Manchester United fail to qualify for the Champions League this season, Ronaldo will be on his way, after just one year back at Old Trafford following his much-heralded return. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner and global icon is unlikely to want to grub around in the Europa League, a competition he has never played in and one he undoubtedly feels is not befitting his exalted status.
