Cristiano Ronaldo is not expected to stay at Manchester United once his playing days are over.
The 36-year-old returned to Old Trafford over the summer on a two-year deal, with club holding an option of a further season to take him to 2024.
Reports have claimed that Ronaldo is looking further ahead to becoming part of the coaching staff at United once he finally calls time on one of the greatest playing careers the game has ever seen.
Ronaldo’s son, Cristiano Jr, is on United’s books and one suggestion is that the former Real Madrid ace wants a management role so he can oversee his progress.
Bookies are even offering odds of 20-1 on Ronaldo to replace Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as manager at Old Trafford.
But, as reported by the Daily Star , United have not discussed a possible coaching job with Ronaldo and have no plans to in the future, with senior figures insisting he was re-signed on a playing basis only.
It is understood senior figures at United believe Ronaldo, 36, could still be playing into his 40s due to his astonishing fitness levels and physical condition.
United would even be open to holding talks with Ronaldo about him extending his current contract even further, should this scenario suit both parties nearer the time.
The Portuguese superstar has plundered nine goals in 11 games this season, including a last-gasp equaliser to earn United a point in Tuesday’s crucial Champions League group game at Atalanta.
Just last month United boss Solskjaer admitted he thought Ronaldo could emulate Ryan Giggs by continuing to play at the highest level into his 40s.
He said: “I wouldn’t be surprised if he still played when he was 40, not at all, because of the way he looks after himself. That’s the key to it – and of course some genes. There must be some genes as well, some DNA in there.
“His mentality is still absolutely spot-on and that’s a desire from inside that he’s going to keep going until his head says, “no, I’ve given everything now. Hopefully it will last a few more years. Age is never a problem.”
Ronaldo has a strong connection with United following huge success with them during his initial spell at the club between 2003 and 2009.
He won a host of trophies, including the Champions League, three Premier League titles, the FA Cup and two League Cups and has shown some sparkling form on his return this season, plundering six goals in eight appearances.
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