Cristiano Ronaldo has stated that he is focused on the present, ahead of Portugal's Nations League match against Wales. In a press conference on Wednesday, Ronaldo refused to set a date for his international retirement. The 41-year-old announced earlier in the summer that this season would probably be the last of his career, prompting numerous questions from reporters.
Ronaldo emphasized that he is no longer at an age where he thinks about the future, and for him, the present is what matters most. He expressed his readiness to step down from the national team as soon as the staff wanted it and hinted that he would announce his departure before playing his final match. Ronaldo's statements have garnered significant attention as Portugal prepares to face Wales in the Nations League.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star also confirmed his ambition to reach 1,000 career goals, having already scored 979 in all competitions. Ronaldo stated that he wants to achieve this milestone, but it's not an obsession for him. He expressed his desire to hit this milestone in a Portugal shirt, describing it as the "cherry on the cake" and a fitting conclusion to his career.
Ronaldo described the arrival of new coach Jorge Jesus as the beginning of a new era for Portugal. He praised Jesus, with whom he worked at Al-Nassr last year, as the perfect choice to replace Roberto Martinez. Jesus confirmed that Ronaldo will be playing against Wales and expressed his hope that Ronaldo will score one or two goals in the match.
Portugal will begin their Nations League campaign by hosting Wales on Thursday in Lisbon, followed by away matches against Norway and Denmark. The team's schedule is packed, with their next match against Norway on October 4. Ronaldo's participation in these matches will be closely watched by fans and critics alike.
Jorge Jesus's appointment as coach has brought new expectations for Portugal, and Ronaldo's continued involvement is a significant factor in the team's prospects. With his experience and skill, Ronaldo remains a crucial player for Portugal, and his performance will be closely monitored in the upcoming matches.
As Portugal prepares to face Wales, the team's focus will be on achieving a strong start in the Nations League. With Ronaldo leading the team, Portugal will look to build on their previous successes, including their 2019 and 2025 Nations League titles. The team's performance will be closely watched, and Ronaldo's role will be a key factor in their success.
Key points
- Cristiano Ronaldo is focused on the present and has refused to set a date for his international retirement.
- Ronaldo aims to reach 1,000 career goals and hopes to achieve this milestone in a Portugal shirt.
- New coach Jorge Jesus has expressed his confidence in Ronaldo, who will play against Wales in the Nations League.
