Cristiano Ronaldo says he can still score for Portugal though knows critics want him out of team

In the world of football, Cristiano Ronaldo is on the verge of completing a dream he has long harboured. The 41-year-old is set to join Saudi club Al Nassr as a free agent next summer, having parted ways with Manchester United by mutual consent. Ronaldo is on a mission to reach a significant milestone: scoring 1,000 goals in his illustrious career.

However, Ronaldo's aspirations extend beyond his own goals tally. He harbours a desire to play alongside his 16-year-old son, Cristiano Junior, who has been making waves for Al Nassr's youth team. With Junior scoring goals at an impressive rate, there are murmurs about the possibility of his son making his first-team debut for Al Nassr this season.

Junior, who stands at 1.9 metres, is not just a prodigious talent but also a young footballer with a bright future. The young star has already scored three times in nine caps for Portugal's U15 and U16 sides, and is expected to be promoted to the U17 set-up for their games in November.

While Junior's progression is a cause for celebration, it could also pave the way for his father to realise one of his lifelong dreams. Should Junior earn his first-team spot, it seems highly likely that he will share the pitch with his father before Ronaldo's retirement.

However, the situation is not without uncertainties. Al Nassr is currently undergoing a challenging phase, which might delay Junior's breakthrough. But if the young Ronaldo continues to impress, there's a possibility that his skills will earn him a call-up at the club, allowing him to play alongside his father.

If Junior fails to make an impact, Ronaldo's retirement plans could take an unexpected turn. With the Pro League title secured for Al Nassr in the 2025/26 season, Ronaldo may choose to bow out in a manner befitting his legacy. In such a scenario, Junior would undoubtedly be by his side, ensuring the Ronaldo name continues to inspire budding footballers around the world.