Cristiano Ronaldo , the long-time Portugal talisman, finally admitted to considering retiring from international football after the 2026 FIFA World Cup debacle, where the side lost to Spain in the Round of 16. Because of his two dreams – 1000 career goals and winning the UEFA Nations League, however, the striker added that he chose to continue.
The 41-year-old, who has represented Portugal in 233 matches, revealed that he has held discussions with both the Portuguese Football Federation president, Pedro Proenca, and head coach, Jorge Jesus, and confirmed that he would be available for the national team when required. The maverick striker further added that he wants to score 1000 career goals, but said it isn’t an obsession, as he knows he’ll reach the landmark sooner rather than later. It is worth noting that Ronaldo is currently 21 goals shy of 1,000.
The seasoned campaigner believes that he still has a lot to offer for the national team and can contribute in Portugal, becoming a major force in international football. “I still believe that I’m able to help the national team reach what they want. The forward also had high praise in store for the current Portugal manager.
“Yes, I did,” Ronaldo said when asked if he had considered retiring after the World Cup. I think I can give the national team my support, not only through the goals, but also outside of football,” said Ronaldo. “My goal is twofold: to score my 1,000th goal and to win the UEFA Nations League,” said Ronaldo.
Ronaldo and Jesus had previously worked together at the Saudi club Al-Nassr.
