Cristiano Ronaldo has appeared to aim a fresh dig at Manchester United and Erik ten Hag as he spoke out about his future in football.
The 39-year-old is currently into his third season with Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr, having signed for them following the termination of his Manchester United contract in January 2023.
He scored 35 goals in 31 league games for Al Nassr last season, and was 2023's top goalscorer across selected top European leagues.
The Portugal legend hinted at retirement from football earlier this year, telling media that he planned to continue playing football for at least two to three years.
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Now, he has again spoken about the possibility of hanging up his boots - and appeared to aim a dig at United and Ten Hag in the process over his acrimonious exit from the club almost two years ago.
When asked about A Bola about whether he is ready to play for Portugal as a substitute in the coming years as he winds down his career, Ronaldo said: "In my mind, I'll always be a starter. That's what you think.
"Until the end of my career, I'll always think that I'll be a starter.
"I'll always respect the decisions, not just of the coach, but at the clubs I've played for. I've always respected them - once or twice, they've also behaved badly towards me!
"But seriously, whenever there's professional ethics, I always respect the coaches' decisions.
"When professional ethics are not respected, there can always be controversy, but that is separate.
"What I feel at the moment, and the coach's words also demonstrate this, is that I continue to be an asset to the national team and I will be the first to admit it.
"If that does not happen, if I am not an asset, I will be the first to leave. But if I leave, I will go with a clear conscience, as always."
Topics: Cristiano Ronaldo, Manchester United, Erik Ten Hag, Football
Ryan Smart