BY NADIA NTIAMOAH
Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that he seriously considered ending his Portugal career after the 2026 FIFA World Cup but chose to continue after deciding he could still help the national team achieve more success.
The 41-year-old superstar had confirmed during the summer that the 2026 World Cup would be his final appearance at football’s biggest tournament, leaving questions over whether he would also bring his international career to an end.
But Ronaldo has now been included in Jorge Jesus’ 25-man squad for Portugal’s Nations League campaign, beginning against Wales in Lisbon on Thursday.
The Al-Nassr forward admitted retirement was genuinely on his mind after the World Cup.
“Yes, I did,” Ronaldo said when asked whether he had considered retiring from international football.
“Of course, I’m always thinking on my decisions, my future, the present also. I’m a thinker, you have to think.”
Ronaldo said discussions with Portugal’s president and coach helped shape his decision to remain available, insisting he still believes he can contribute both on and off the pitch.
“I still believe that I’m able to help the national team to reach what they want,” he said.
“I think I can give to the national team my support, not only through the goals, but also outside of football.”
Beyond Portugal’s ambitions, Ronaldo has another extraordinary target keeping him motivated. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is chasing 1,000 career goals and is reportedly 21 goals away from reaching the landmark.
However, he insists his personal pursuit is not more important than Portugal’s quest for another major trophy.
Ronaldo is already a two-time Nations League winner and wants to add another title to his international collection.
“Both aims are important,” he said. “One thousand goals, yes, and the national team.”
Portugal’s squad also contains a number of emerging talents, including Fabio Silva, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes, Joao Neves and Francisco Conceicao.
Ronaldo said helping the younger generation was another reason for continuing his international career.
“I know why young kids love Cristiano, because they see me as an example, and I will continue to do that,” he said.
Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has described Ronaldo as a “symbol of Portugal and the national team.”
The veteran forward also addressed the criticism he has faced throughout his career, saying he has become accustomed to attacks from sections of the media.
“They’ve tried to kill me with a shotgun, but I can still move away from it,” Ronaldo said.
