Ronaldo opens up: Arsenal love, Manchester United regrets, and life beyond fame

In a deeply personal interview aired on November 4, 2025, football legend Cristiano Ronaldo sat down with his longtime confidant Piers Morgan to reflect on his career, his emotional connection to Arsenal, and the lessons he’s learned about fame, money, and legacy.

Broadcast from Saudi Arabia, the interview was streamed on both their YouTube channels and quickly went viral for its raw honesty and surprising revelations.

Piers Morgan opened the conversation by asking why Ronaldo’s studio lacked an Arsenal jersey, one he had gifted him personally. Ronaldo responded

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“It’s tucked away nearby. What happened is in the past, but honestly, when I look at Arsenal, I don’t see them as rivals. I know I came close to joining them. I love how they play and I enjoy their victories mostly because of that story.”

Though he never played for Arsenal, Ronaldo admitted that his admiration for the club remains strong, and he believes they have a real shot at winning the Premier League this season, though he cautioned that “anything can happen in such a tough competition.”

Ronaldo also expressed disappointment over the current state of Manchester United, the club where he rose to global fame. He emphasized that the problems go beyond coaching or player selection

“There are no miracles. Everything must be earned. They need to learn from their mistakes and understand what Manchester United truly represents, a dream for the young and a badge of honor for those who’ve worn it.”

His words reflect a deep emotional connection to the club, coupled with frustration over its recent struggles.

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Perhaps the most striking part of the interview was Ronaldo’s reflection on wealth and fulfillment. Despite being one of the richest athletes in history, he confessed that money alone doesn’t bring meaning:

“I’ve had so much money that at some point, it felt meaningless. What matters is purpose, not possessions.”

He also downplayed the importance of winning the World Cup, saying it’s not a requirement for being considered the best:

“I don’t need a World Cup to be number one. That’s not what defines greatness.”

This interview marks a shift in Ronaldo’s public persona—from global superstar to philosophical elder statesman of football. His reflections on identity, loyalty, and personal growth offer fans a deeper understanding of the man behind the legend.

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INTERVIEW WITH PIERS MORGAN