In a recent interview, Cristiano Ronaldo clarified his intentions regarding retirement from international football, stating that he plans to continue representing Portugal for at least another two to three years.
This announcement comes in the wake of Portugal’s exit from the Euro 2024 tournament, where France eliminated them in the quarter-finals in a penalty shootout.
Ronaldo’s Commitment to the National Team
Ronaldo, currently playing for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, emphasized his desire to remain a key figure for the national team as they prepare for upcoming competitions, including the FIFA World Cup 2026.
He holds the record for the most appearances and goals for Portugal, with 212 caps and 130 goals, and is determined to add to these impressive statistics.
During the interview, Ronaldo stated, “When the time comes, I’ll move on. It won’t be a difficult decision to make. I’ll be the first to leave if I feel like I’m no longer contributing anything.”
Ronaldo’s Recent Performances and Euro 2024
Ronaldo’s performance at Euro 2024 was under scrutiny, as he failed to score in open play and missed a crucial penalty during the tournament.
Portugal’s campaign ended in disappointment, with Ronaldo unable to find the back of the net as they fell to France in the quarter-finals. Despite the criticism, he remains focused on his future with the national team.
The 39-year-old forward acknowledged the heightened expectations surrounding the national team, stating, “People’s expectations of the national team were too high.”
He expressed a desire to help the team qualify for future tournaments and contribute to their success.
Looking Ahead to the World Cup 2026
Ronaldo’s ambition to play in the 2026 World Cup is a significant motivator for him. He aims to become the first player in history to appear and score in six editions of the tournament.
His competitive spirit and desire to win the World Cup, which has eluded him throughout his illustrious career, drive his commitment to the national team.
As Portugal prepares for upcoming matches in the Nations League, Ronaldo’s experience and leadership will be invaluable.
He has already started the 2024/25 season with Al-Nassr on a high note, scoring four goals in his first four games, showcasing that he still possesses the ability to perform at the top level.
