Cristiano Ronaldo revealed that he thought about ending his international career after the World Cup. However, he intends to continue representing Portugal and remains hopeful of reaching 1,000 goals for club and country. Sitting 21 goals short of that landmark, Ronaldo acknowledged that some critics want to bring him down, but insisted he is determined to keep going.
Ronaldo, Portugal’s most-capped player with 233 appearances, wore the captain’s armband at the World Cup, where Spain eliminated his team in the last 16. When asked whether he had considered retiring from international football, he said: “Yes, the thought crossed my mind. I always reflect on my choices, my future and my current situation. I think carefully about these things. The fact that I am here now shows that I have decided to continue.
“I spoke with our president [Pedro Proenca] and the coach. I still believe I can help the national team achieve its objectives. My contribution is not limited to scoring goals, because I can also offer support away from the pitch. A talented new generation is emerging, but the key issue for me is whether I can still perform, score and help the team win matches.
“If I am ever told that I am no longer wanted in the national team, I will leave immediately. The same applies if I feel I am no longer contributing or that my presence is causing problems. I would pack my bags and step aside. People in Portugal still believe in me, which is why I remain here. The statistics show that I am continuing to perform well. When the team no longer needs me, I will depart without any issue and remain this federation’s biggest supporter.”
Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus, who previously worked with Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, confirmed that the 41-year-old would start Thursday’s Nations League match against Wales, his first game in charge. Jesus, who replaced Roberto Martínez, also delivered a strong defence of Ronaldo that drew applause from many of those gathered at Portugal’s City of Football complex in Lisbon.
“Cristiano represents both Portugal and its national team,” Jesus said while sitting beside Ronaldo at the federation’s training base. “His reputation does not automatically guarantee that he will play, because selecting the team is the manager’s responsibility.”
Ronaldo appeared calm and comfortable alongside Jesus on stage. “What matters most is that I understand who I am,” he said. “I know how hard I work to remain at this level, and I understand what I have done to achieve my success. Young people admire Cristiano because they regard me as a role model, and I intend to remain one even after I retire, perhaps in 10 years.
“I am satisfied with myself. Whether I play tomorrow or am rested for the following match is not the main concern; what matters is that I feel well. The people close to me believe in my work. I concentrate on those who support Cristiano rather than those who attack me, and that allows me to stay happy.”
Asked directly about the criticism he receives, Ronaldo made the room laugh by saying: “I cannot always speak with complete honesty; sometimes I need to choose my words carefully.” He continued: “I understand that certain television channels enjoy criticising me. They have tried to destroy me, almost as if they were using a shotgun, but I have managed to avoid it. I am accustomed to this after dealing with it for more than 20 years. I focus on what I can control and ignore what I cannot.”
Ronaldo will return on Thursday to José Alvalade Stadium, where his professional journey began with Sporting before he moved to Manchester United in 2003. The fixture will be Portugal’s first match in Lisbon since their World Cup qualifying victory over Ireland last October.
“Returning there carries special meaning because that is where my wonderful journey began,” Ronaldo said. “I feel extremely proud to represent the national team there after so many years, at the stadium where I was effectively introduced to the wider football world. It was an unforgettable period.
“Representing the national side and wearing Portugal’s colours is always an honour. Even after all these years, it continues to feel as exciting as my first appearance. I will enter the pitch with passion and emotion, and I hope we begin with a positive result. Playing at Sporting’s stadium makes the occasion even more meaningful.
“Scoring my 1,000th goal for Portugal would be the perfect finishing touch and a fitting conclusion to an incredible story. I have said that I want to reach that total, and I believe I will do it, but I am not consumed by the target. Becoming too fixated on something can prevent you from achieving it. The important thing is to appreciate the present and enjoy each day.”
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