Cristiano Ronaldo dismisses immediate retirement plans, asserting he still has much to contribute to Portugal’s national team. At a press conference before the Nations League match against Croatia, Ronaldo clarified that he will retire only when he feels he can no longer contribute. Despite not scoring in EURO 2024, he remains committed to the team, emphasising his evolution through difficult moments.
Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo has dismissed any immediate plans to retire from international football, stating he still has a lot to contribute to Portugal’s national team.
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Speaking at a press conference on Monday, ahead of Thursday’s Nations League match against Croatia in Lisbon, the 39-year-old Al-Nassr forward debunked reports suggesting he might quit the national team soon.
“When the time comes, I will move on. It won’t be a difficult decision to make,” Ronaldo said. He stressed that he would be the first to step aside if he felt he was no longer contributing. He referenced his former teammate Pepe, who retired last August at 41, choosing to “leave through the front door.”
Despite not scoring during his sixth European Championship appearance this year, which saw Portugal exit in the EURO 2024 quarter-finals, Ronaldo remains determined.
He acknowledged that people’s expectations of the national team were very high but expressed gratitude for the continued support from coach Roberto Martinez. Ronaldo emphasised that tough times in a footballer’s career can be opportunities for growth and improvement.
Following Thursday’s match against Croatia, Portugal will stay in Lisbon to face Scotland on Sunday, with Ronaldo expected to play a leading role. His commitment to the national team remains strong, reflecting his belief that he still has much to offer at the highest level of international football.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
