Ronaldo’s Future in International Football: A Decision That Comes Naturally
Portugal’s all-time leading goalscorer, Cristiano Ronaldo, has made it clear that he has no immediate plans to retire from international football. However, the 39-year-old acknowledges that when the time eventually comes, the decision will be an easy one to make.
Ronaldo’s illustrious career boasts an impressive record of 130 goals in 212 appearances for the Portuguese national team, making him the highest-scoring player in men’s international football history. Despite this, his recent performance at Euro 2024 raised questions about his effectiveness on the pitch, with critics suggesting that he held the team back.
Following Portugal’s disappointing Euro 2024 campaign, Ronaldo remains determined to continue representing his country. He emphasized that he has never considered leaving the national team, despite the criticism he faced. However, he did express an understanding of the need to make way for younger talent, acknowledging that his contributions may diminish over time.
Ronaldo’s teammate, Pepe, who also played a crucial role in Portugal’s success, has already chosen to retire from international football. Ronaldo commended the defender for leaving “through the front door,” suggesting that Pepe’s decision was well-thought-out and respectable. In contrast, Ronaldo himself has opted to carry on, driven by his passion for the game and his desire to contribute to the national team’s success.
Reflecting on Portugal’s quarter-final exit from Euro 2024, Ronaldo acknowledged that the nation’s expectations were perhaps too high. The team’s defeat to France on penalties led to disappointment among fans and pundits alike. However, Ronaldo remains focused and determined to continue representing Portugal until he feels that he is no longer contributing positively to the team’s performance.
Looking ahead, Ronaldo contemplates his future in football. While he currently plays for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, he has hinted that he may retire there in the next few years. However, he also stated that his decision to retire from international football will be spontaneous yet carefully considered. Ronaldo has no intentions to announce his retirement in advance, emphasizing that it will be a personal choice made when the time feels right.
As the football world awaits Ronaldo’s next move, there is no doubt that his decision regarding international retirement will be one that aligns with his unwavering dedication to the game. While his recent performances may have raised some doubts, his illustrious career and undeniable impact on the Portuguese national team make him a true legend of the sport. When the time does come for Ronaldo to bid farewell to international football, it will undoubtedly be a decision that reflects his commitment to both the game and his team.