UNIONDALE, N.Y. – Spanish legend Raul is committed to the New York Cosmos on a long term deal that will see him not only play with the club, but head up their Academy program upon his retirement from the game.

That transition could happen as soon as this offseason.

Asked about the possibility of continuing his playing career heading into the next NASL campaign, a reserved Raul was noncommittal, leaving open the possibility of retirement at season’s end.

“It’s too soon to make that decision,” Raul said. “I will evaluate everything in general at season’s end.

“I would have to see if my body can take it and make an evaluation then.”

While offering that the most important thing on his mind is competing for an NASL championship, Raul expressed health concerns stemming in part from the club’s home pitch at Hofstra’s Shuart Stadium. “Playing on artificial turf is not the best to keep in top conditions but I still feel well and with the desire to keep training as an individual and in the aspect of the team,” Raul said. “My priority this year is keeping myself fit, helping the club and worrying more about football.

“We don’t have the best conditions to play in but it is what we have and I knew this coming in,” he continued. “When we play on artificial turf instead of grass, it is slower and helps teams that are out to defend, not attack. We are an attacking team and at times that complicates our system. But we know that and know we have to give it more intensity, more rhythm to create the space we need to win matches.”

Regardless of the playing conditions, Raul has been a strong contributor for the Cosmos and is focused on ending the year on a high note. He scored four goals in all 10 Spring Championship matches, helping the Cosmos towards the spring title and a playoff berth in the NASL Championship. He has also played in two of three U.S. Open Cup matches this year and has appeared in all three Cosmos’ Fall season matches.

However, if this does signal the end of his career, Raul will do so as one of the most celebrated strikers in history, with six La Liga championships, three UEFA titles and several individual club and international records under his belt.