Cristiano Ronaldo has an American dream.
Ronaldo plans to play in MLS after his contract with Real Madrid expires in 2018, Sports Illustrated’s Grant Wahl reported Wednesday. Ronaldo reportedly wants to live, work and play either in Los Angeles, Miami or New York City.
Ronaldo, the reigning FIFA Ballon d’Or winner, likely would make his MLS move following the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. Ronaldo would be 33 at that time.
Ronaldo has enjoyed a storied career since emerging from the youth academy of Sporting Lisbon in his native Portugal in 2002. Ronaldo soon moved to Manchester United where he established himself as one of the Premier League’s all-time greats during a six-year spell with the Red Devils from 2003 to 2009. Ronaldo made a record-breaking move from Manchester United to Real Madrid in 2009 and raised his game to spell-binding heights with the Spanish giant.
Ronaldo currently is the third-highest goal scorer in Real Madrid’s storied history. He likely will surpass Raul as Real Madrid’s record goal scorer if he remains fit and motivated at the club through 2018.
Ronaldo would come to MLS as the most accomplished, famous and highly anticipated player in the league’s 20-plus year history. He would command a Designated Player salary and instantly raise the domestic and global profile of the lucky club that lands him.
The Los Angeles Galaxy, Los Angeles FC, New York City FC, the New York Red Bulls, and David Beckham’s MLS team in Miami would be the front-runners for Ronaldo’s services.
Thumbnail photo via Daniel Ochoa de Olza/The Associated Press
