Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo, now 40, has been presented with an intriguing suggestion for the next phase of his illustrious career.

Giorgos Karagounis, a former Greek international who enjoyed stints at Fulham and Panathinaikos, has proposed that Ronaldo consider joining the Athens-based club Panathinaikos if he decides to depart from his current team, Al-Nassr, in the Saudi Pro League.

This unexpected idea comes as Ronaldo’s high-profile contract with Al-Nassr approaches its conclusion in June 2025, sparking widespread speculation about where the five-time Ballon d’Or winner might head next.

Karagounis, speaking to Spin Genie, expressed his enthusiasm for the potential move, playfully noting Ronaldo’s history of donning green kits during his early days at Sporting Lisbon.

“I’m not sure if we’ll ever see Cristiano Ronaldo at Wrexham, but I’d love to see him in Greece with Panathinaikos,” he said, adding, “He’s already worn green with Sporting, so why not with Panathinaikos?” The Greek club, while no longer a dominant force in European football, remains a powerhouse in its domestic league, boasting a fervent fanbase and a storied history of attracting big names like Gilberto Silva, Michael Essien, Djibril Cissé, and Ronaldo’s fellow Portuguese star Hélder Postiga.

For Ronaldo, the move could offer a unique blend of competitive football and passionate support, which aligns with his ambition to continue playing at a high level as he aims to lead Portugal at the 2026 World Cup.

Despite his age, Ronaldo shows no signs of slowing down, having already netted an impressive 23 goals in the Saudi Pro League this season.

His relentless drive and goal-scoring prowess make him a valuable asset for any club, even one like Panathinaikos, which may not compete at the pinnacle of European football but offers a platform for regular game time and a chance to further his legacy.

While the idea might seem more of a dream than a realistic prospect, Ronaldo’s global appeal and Panathinaikos’ stature in Greek football create a fascinating narrative.

As his contract nears its end, Ronaldo faces a pivotal decision: extend his stay in Saudi Arabia, return to Europe, or explore an unexpected path like the one Karagounis has suggested.

Whatever he chooses, the football world will be watching closely as CR7 continues to defy expectations in the twilight of his career.