Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that international retirement was genuinely on his mind after Portugal’s 2026 World Cup campaign, but the legendary forward has now chosen to continue with the national team. After speaking with Portugal president Pedro Proença and new head coach Jorge Jesus, Ronaldo concluded that he still has something to offer. At 41, the Portugal captain is apparently not quite ready to hand over the international microphone.
The timing is significant. Ronaldo had already confirmed that the 2026 World Cup would be his final appearance in the competition, bringing an end to a six-World-Cup journey. However, that decision did not automatically mean his Portugal career was finished. FIFA reported after Portugal’s elimination by Spain that Ronaldo wanted time with his family before making any decision about his wider international future.
Cristiano Ronaldo Decided Portugal Still Has Use for Him
Ronaldo has now explained that he considered walking away from Portugal after the World Cup but ultimately decided against it. His conversations with the president and coach played a role, while his own belief that he can still contribute remains central to the decision. Ronaldo says his contribution can come through goals, experience and support for the younger generation coming through the national team.
That position also fits with Jorge Jesus’ approach. The new Portugal coach has included Ronaldo in his first squad and has stressed that the veteran will not receive special treatment simply because of his reputation. Jesus has said players will be judged on current performance, while Ronaldo has made clear that he will eventually leave when he feels he can no longer contribute.
Ronaldo Still Has Goals—and Apparently 21 More Would Be Nice
There is also another reason Cristiano Ronaldo remains particularly motivated: the 1,000-goal milestone. Ronaldo currently has 979 goals for club and country, leaving him 21 short of the landmark. He has spoken about how special it would be to reach that figure in a Portugal shirt, adding another layer to the continuation of his international career.
For Portugal, Ronaldo’s presence also means experience during the transition into a new era. The squad contains a younger generation, while Ronaldo remains one of the most prolific international players in men’s football. He is expected to win his 234th cap against Wales on September 24, with Jorge Jesus confirming that he will start the Nations League fixture. The retirement conversation has therefore been postponed—not necessarily cancelled forever.
For now, Cristiano Ronaldo’s message is straightforward: he thought about leaving, spoke to the people around the national team, and decided he could still help. Portugal may be entering a new era, but the old headline-maker is still writing a few more lines. Retirement apparently made it to the meeting room—but CR7 left with another contract for the next chapter.
