Cristiano Ronaldo has made it known to Manchester United that he wants out, and he didn't hide the fact that it's because of his desire to keep playing Champions League football.

The Portuguese striker has played in the Champions League for 19 seasons in a row, but with Manchester United failing to qualify after finishing sixth in the 2021-22 season of the Premier League, there is a real threat that streak will end if he stays.

More than just extending his UCL streak, though, Ronaldo has apparently a deeper motivation for wanting to keep playing on Europe's biggest stage. Per a Mirror report, it is what keeps him going.

Article Continues Below
More Soccer News
LA Galaxy former player Landon Donovan looks on before the 2024 MLS Cup against the New York Red Bulls at Dignity Health Sports Park.
USMNT legend Landon Donovan bluntly calls out players opting out of Gold CupMiguel La Torre ·
Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal, Spain and UEFA Nations League logo, fire symbols
Cristiano Ronaldo’s emotional reaction after Portugal wins UEFA Nations LeagueRichard Pereira ·
image thumbnail
Boston Legacy FC unveils official logo as 2026 NWSL debut approachesJess Koffie ·
NJ/NY Gotham FC players are recognized for their Concaf W Champions Cup victory after the match against the Kansas City Current at Sports Illustrated Stadium.
NWSL introduces roster building moves to prepare for expansion teamsJordan Llanes ·
Al Nassr player Cristiano Ronaldo reacts after being substituted in a Saudi Pro League soccer match at King Abdullah Sports City.
Cristiano Ronaldo drops honest Lamine Yamal assessment ahead of first meetingQuinn Allen ·
Grizzlies forward Santi Aldama, UD Las Palmas soccer club logo, McDonald's box
Exclusive: Grizzlies’ Santi Aldama’s ‘cheat day’ plans based around UD Las Palmas soccerChris Dodson ·

“Next season will be the first time he won't play in the Champions League. He needs to play in the competition – it's what drives him to produce his best, hence why he wants to move,” a source told the UK publication.

Sure enough, Cristiano Ronaldo has already some suitors from around Europe lined up to get his services. The likes of Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Napoli have reportedly shown their interest in him should Manchester United allow the striker to leave.

Ronaldo still has a lot left in the tank, and while his return to Manchester United was filled with struggles and inconsistent playing time, he still managed to score 18 goals in 30 Premier League appearances. Any Champions League contender that would snatch him is definitely getting a massive boost, especially since he knows very well how to perform on the biggest and brightest competition in European club football.