Portugal football star Cristiano Ronaldo has stated that his future with the Portugal national team depends on whether the country still wants him. He expressed his willingness to step down immediately if his services are no longer required. Ronaldo made this statement at a press conference ahead of Portugal's UEFA Nations League opener against Wales. The 41-year-old captain emphasized that he has no problem with leaving the team if that's what the country wants.
Ronaldo's statement comes after Portugal's round-of-16 exit at the 2026 World Cup, which led to him considering retirement from international football. However, conversations with Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença and new head coach Jorge Jesus convinced him to continue playing for the national team. Ronaldo stressed that the mutual trust between him and the team remains intact, which is why he continues to represent Portugal.
The veteran forward, who has scored 146 goals in 233 appearances for Portugal, said he remains motivated by the support of the Portuguese people and his ongoing contribution on the pitch. He is currently 21 goals short of achieving 1,000 career goals for club and country. Ronaldo described scoring the landmark goal for the national team as "the icing on the cake."
Ronaldo set a dual target for the coming months: reaching 1,000 goals and helping Portugal win another Nations League title under Jesus, who replaced Roberto Martínez. Portugal begins their Nations League campaign against Wales in Lisbon, with Jesus confirming that Ronaldo will start. Ronaldo expressed his readiness to play, stating that he is prepared to start or come off the bench.
Ronaldo's commitment to the team is evident in his statement, "If they rely on me, I rely on them. And the Portuguese people rely on me. That's why I continue playing for the national team." He also added that if the federation or president decides that they no longer want to rely on him, he will be the first to speak to them about it.
The Portuguese Football Federation and new head coach Jorge Jesus have shown their confidence in Ronaldo, with Jesus confirming that he will start against Wales. Ronaldo's experience and skills will be crucial for Portugal in their Nations League campaign. He has been a key player for the team, and his goals have contributed significantly to their success.
Ronaldo's statement has generated significant interest among football fans, with many speculating about his future with the Portugal national team. However, the 41-year-old captain remains focused on his goals, both individually and collectively, with Portugal aiming to win another Nations League title under Jesus.
Key points
- Ronaldo will leave Portugal team if not wanted
- Ronaldo 21 goals short of 1,000 career goals
- Ronaldo to start for Portugal against Wales
