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Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has stated that football icon Cristiano Ronaldo is no longer fixated on achieving his long-held dream of scoring 1,000 career goals. The 41-year-old forward, who is edging ever closer to that extraordinary tally, had earlier vowed not to retire until he crossed that milestone. However, Martinez believes that Ronaldo's outlook has shifted as he approaches the final stages of his illustrious career.

Ronaldo sits on 965 goals and counting

Ronaldo was on the scoresheet once again for Al-Nassr in their recent 5-0 victory over Al-Najma, a result that extended Jorge Jesus’s side’s winning streak to nine matches. The Portuguese captain’s goal took his incredible career tally to 965, with the veteran showing few signs of slowing down despite his age. He has previously expressed his desire to reach the 1,000-goal mark before hanging up his boots.

Speaking at the Globe Soccer Awards held in Dubai in December, Ronaldo said: “It’s challenging to keep playing, but I remain motivated. My passion is still strong and I want to continue playing.”

He continued: “I love football, regardless of where I play — whether it’s in the Middle East or Europe. I still enjoy every moment on the pitch and I want to keep going. Everyone knows my target — I want to win titles and reach that 1,000-goal milestone. I’ll definitely get there, as long as I stay injury-free.”

Martinez: Ronaldo ‘not bothered’ about the 1,000-goal mark

Despite Ronaldo’s earlier ambition, Martinez insists the forward is no longer obsessed with personal records. Speaking on The Overlap, presented by Sky Bet, the Portuguese boss said: “Since I took charge in 2023, Cristiano has been an exemplary captain. He’s set the standard for everyone in the squad, both on and off the pitch. From a football perspective, he’s not the same player he was during his first spell at Manchester United.”

Martinez elaborated: “He’s no longer a winger or a player who needs to operate in wide areas. He’s now our number nine — a pure finisher. His main job is to make those runs behind the defensive line, especially inside the box. He’s scored 25 goals in his last 30 matches.”

“People keep talking about him chasing 1,000 goals, but he’s not bothered about that anymore. He feels there’s no real difference between scoring 950 or 1,050 goals — he’s still the same player. He’s evolved in his approach in the final third, learning to attract defenders and create space for others. Now, he makes smarter decisions about when to take a shot or when to pass.”

“It’s true — he’s changed. This is not the same Cristiano from when he was 25 or 26, who needed to be constantly driven. Back then, he was a player who scored more goals than appearances for Real Madrid.”

Ronaldo back after brief strike

Ronaldo’s scoring form briefly stalled when he went on strike amid disputes over Saudi Pro League transfers and financial matters. The forward missed three matches before returning to action, and has since netted three goals in his last four games. The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star has also reaffirmed his commitment to continuing his career in the Middle East.

He said: “I’m very happy here. Saudi Arabia has welcomed me, my family, and my friends with open arms. I truly feel that I belong here, and I want to continue playing in this country.”

He added: “What matters most is that we keep pushing forward. We’re at the top, our job is to win and keep the pressure on our rivals. We’re on track, feeling confident, and taking it game by game. Let’s see where this journey takes us.”

Ronaldo recently signed a contract extension with Al-Nassr that will keep him at the club until 2027.

Could Ronaldo finally lift a trophy with Al-Nassr?

Despite his individual brilliance, Ronaldo is yet to claim a major trophy with Al-Nassr. The team, however, is firmly in the title race this season, sitting at the top of the Saudi Pro League table after 23 matches, two points clear of Al-Hilal. Al-Nassr will next face Al-Fayha on Saturday, as Ronaldo aims to secure his first major silverware with the club.