Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that he considered ending his international career after the 2026 World Cup but decided to continue playing for Portugal, with another Nations League title and the milestone of 1,000 career goals firmly in his sights.
The 41-year-old confirmed earlier this summer that the World Cup would be his final appearance at the tournament, leaving questions over how much longer he would represent his country.
However, Ronaldo has been named in Jorge Jesus’ 25-man squad for Portugal’s Nations League campaign, which begins with a home match against Wales in Lisbon on Thursday.
Speaking ahead of the encounter with Craig Bellamy’s side, the Al-Nassr forward explained that discussions with the Portuguese Football Federation president and national team coach had helped convince him to extend his international career.
Ronaldo believes he can still make a meaningful contribution on the pitch while using his experience to support Portugal’s emerging generation of players.
The former Sporting, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus striker is also determined to reach 1,000 career goals, needing another 21 to achieve the landmark.
Despite that individual ambition, Ronaldo remains focused on helping Portugal secure a third Nations League title, having already won the competition twice.
Portugal’s latest squad features several younger players, including Fabio Silva, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes, Joao Neves and Francisco Conceicao.
Ronaldo sees his role within the evolving team as extending beyond scoring goals, with his experience and professional approach providing guidance for the country’s younger footballers.
Although he joked about continuing his career for another decade, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner emphasised that his immediate priority is maintaining his fitness and contributing whenever selected.
He also indicated that he is comfortable with the possibility of being rested for certain matches as Portugal manage their squad throughout the Nations League campaign.
Jesus reinforced Ronaldo’s importance to the national side during Wednesday’s news conference in Lisbon, highlighting his status as one of Portuguese football’s defining figures.
Ronaldo also reflected on the criticism he has encountered throughout his career, particularly during his spells in England, Spain and Italy.
He explained that representing Portugal has provided him with a strong sense of appreciation from supporters, adding that the encouragement he receives from his country’s fans carries greater personal significance than negative media coverage.
Having spent more than two decades at the highest level, Ronaldo remains determined to extend his international career while helping Portugal’s next generation pursue further success.