'It's our motivation' - Cristiano Ronaldo doesn't rule out return to Champions League as Al-Nassr star is honoured with special award at UCL draw in Monaco

Posted Friday, August 30, 2024 by Goal.com

Cristiano Ronaldo didn't rule out a return to the Champions League as the Al-Nassr star was honoured at the Champions League draw.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner was honoured during the revamped Champions League draw event in Monaco, where he was presented with an award for being the all-time leading goal scorer in Champions League history, boasting an impressive tally of 140 strikes over 183 appearances. Ronaldo has also won the elite European competition on five occasions, once with Manchester United and four times with Real Madrid.

WHAT RONALDO SAID

The event was marked by a lighthearted exchange between Ronaldo and UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin, who teased the Portuguese star about his absence from the competition.

Ronaldo immediately quipped back: "I play Asian [Champions] League, don't forget that."

The 39-year-old then went on to reflect on his illustrious career in the Champions League, a competition that has been a significant part of his legacy.

"For me it is a pleasure to be here. Thank you for this amazing award it means a lot to me," Ronaldo said. "As you know, Champions League it's the highest in football. I had an opportunity, not only you know the record speaks for itself, but I don't mean that, I mean the pleasure to play that competition... it's our motivation."

RETURN TO UCL ON THE CARDS?

Although Ronaldo has recently hinted that he might retire with Al-Nassr, he left the door slightly ajar for a future return to the UEFA Champions League. He stated: "Football... you never know what's going to happen, let's see what the future brings."

WHAT NEXT FOR RONALDO?

Whether or not he graces the European stage again, Ronaldo's legacy in the Champions League is secure, with several records that may stand the test of time. The revamped edition of the Champions League will start on September 17, with Arsenal and Harry Kane among the winners from Thursday's draw.