Former Portugal footballer Luis Figo has expressed his views on Cristiano Ronaldo's potential retirement from international football. Pressure on Ronaldo to quit international football has increased after Lionel Messi's recent retirement. Messi chose to end his international career with Argentina on August 31, following Argentina's defeat to Spain in the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the death of his father, Jorge.
While Lionel Messi has formally announced his retirement from international football, Cristiano Ronaldo has not indicated any intention to end his career with Portugal. During the current international break ahead of UEFA Nations League fixtures, the Portuguese captain declared his willingness to leave the national team should the coaching staff determine that he is no longer an appropriate selection for the country. Ronaldo has previously stated his ambition to score 1,000 career goals across all competitions.
Given that the 41-year-old remains 21 goals short of this target, he is expected to continue representing Portugal. Portugal head coach, Jorge Jesus relegated Cristiano Ronaldo to the bench during the 2-1 victory over Norway on Sunday, where he remained an unused substitute. This move has sparked discussions about Ronaldo's future with the national team.
Following the match, Figo offered his assessment, saying that the ultimate decision regarding Cristiano Ronaldo's international retirement rests with the legendary footballer himself. Figo further acknowledged that the coaching staff will exercise considerable influence in the matter. The former Portuguese captain emphasized that Ronaldo should not be retained in the squad merely because of his prominence or as a gesture of recognition for his accomplishments in professional football.
Figo expressed his respect for Ronaldo, citing his achievements in football over the years. He noted that Ronaldo can make a personal decision about his international career, but the coach also has a significant role in the decision-making process. Figo's comments have added to the ongoing debate about Ronaldo's future with Portugal.
When asked whether Cristiano Ronaldo should retire in the same manner as Lionel Messi, Figo stated that Ronaldo should decide what he wants. He emphasized that it's not because of Ronaldo's stature or what he means to football that he should have a place in the national team. Figo described it as a big responsibility for the coach to make a decision about Ronaldo's inclusion in the squad.
Ronaldo will be hoping to return to the Portugal line-up when his team faces Denmark in the UEFA Nations League. The 41-year-old will be looking to make an impact and potentially secure his place in the national team. The decision about his international future remains with Ronaldo and the coaching staff, with Figo's comments adding to the discussion.
Key points
- Luis Figo believes Cristiano Ronaldo's international retirement decision rests with him and the coaching staff.
- Cristiano Ronaldo aims to score 1,000 career goals and is expected to continue representing Portugal.
- Figo emphasizes that Ronaldo should not be retained in the squad solely due to his prominence or past achievements.
