Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that he will not retire from the Portugal national team, ending speculation that his recent departure from the squad could mark the end of his international career. The 41-year-old Al Nassr forward made it clear that he still wants to represent his country and compete at the highest level. Ronaldo's statement comes after his controversial departure from Portugal's training camp raised questions about his future with the team.
Ronaldo's dispute with coach Jorge Jesus began after he was left as an unused substitute during Portugal's 2-1 Nations League victory away to Norway on September 27. Ronaldo claimed that he had previously reached an agreement with Jesus regarding his involvement in the matches against Norway and Denmark. However, he says that agreement changed on the day of the Norway match, with Jesus telling him that he would play for 30 minutes.
The legendary forward says he remains available for selection and wants to continue playing, scoring goals and fighting for trophies with Portugal. Ronaldo made it clear that retirement is not currently on his mind, saying he will continue to make himself available as long as he is physically fit and performing for his club. He also apologized to his Portugal teammates and the Portuguese people for leaving the squad.
Jesus has since denied that he made an agreement with Ronaldo concerning the two matches, although he has left the door open for the veteran forward to return to the national team. Ronaldo strongly rejected any suggestion that he had attempted to interfere with the manager's tactical or technical decisions. He emphasized that he respects the coach's decisions and only feels frustrated when his agreements are not honored.
Ronaldo is Portugal's all-time leading goalscorer, with 146 goals in 234 appearances. He recalled remaining with Portugal following the death of his father, explaining how deeply his commitment to representing his country runs. Ronaldo even prioritized a match with Portugal over personal matters, showcasing his dedication to the team.
Despite the dispute, Ronaldo insists his focus is not on arranging a farewell appearance. His priority remains competing for Portugal. He mentioned that there will be time for farewell matches in the future but emphasized that his current focus is on the national team. Ronaldo expressed his commitment to competing and winning for Portugal as long as he is physically fit.
Ronaldo's statement makes one thing unmistakably clear: The end is not here yet. Cristiano Ronaldo is not retiring from Portugal. He will continue to make himself available for selection, serve any potential disciplinary action, and then return to represent Portugal.
Key points
- Cristiano Ronaldo confirms he will not retire from Portugal's national team.
- Ronaldo had a dispute with coach Jorge Jesus over playing time.
- Ronaldo remains committed to competing for Portugal as long as he is physically fit.
