Soccer great Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that he considered retiring from the Portugal national team after the World Cup, but decided to continue after discussions with national team officials. Ronaldo, who will turn 42 in February, is expected to make his 234th appearance for Portugal in Thursday night’s match against Wales in Lisbon.
Portugal coach Jorge Jesus confirmed Wednesday that the Al-Nassr star will start the Nations League match. Ahead of the game, questions were raised over whether the match at Estádio José Alvalade, the home of Sporting Lisbon where Ronaldo began his career, could be his final appearance for the national team.
Ronaldo, however, made clear that he currently has no intention of retiring.
“Yes, I thought about it,” Ronaldo said when asked whether he had considered leaving the national team after the World Cup. “I always think about my decisions, about the future and also about the present. I am someone who thinks a lot. You have to think. That is why you see me here now. It means I will continue.”
Ronaldo said he had discussed the issue with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation and with the coach, and concluded that he could still contribute to the national team.
“I still believe I can help the national team achieve what it wants, and I will retire when I feel that I am no longer doing anything here,” he said.
Ronald wants to win the Nations League and score his 1,000th goal
(Photo: Martin Meissner, File/AP)
According to Ronaldo, his contribution goes beyond scoring goals.
“I think I can give the national team my support, not only through goals but also outside football,” he said. “My goal is to be able to play, score goals and help the team win matches.”
Ahead of the match against Wales, Portuguese newspaper A Bola conducted a poll asking readers to choose their preferred starting lineup, and Ronaldo was not included in those selected by participants.
Ronaldo also addressed the criticism he receives in the media, saying that after more than 20 years in his career, he has grown accustomed to it.
“I feel that the Portuguese fans love me, but I understand there are some media outlets trying to kill me, but for that they’ll need a shotgun,” he said.
Ronaldo was also asked what mattered more to him — reaching 1,000 career goals or winning the Nations League.
“Both,” he replied. “My goal is to achieve both — reach 1,000 goals and win the Nations League.”