Cristiano Ronaldo Reflects on International Future: Retirement ‘Won’t Be a Difficult Decision’

Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo, at 39, remains a dominant figure in international football, with an unmatched record of 130 goals in 212 games—the most by any player in men’s international history. Despite this illustrious career, Ronaldo has hinted that his retirement from international football is on the horizon, though he insists that it will not be a difficult decision when the time comes.

Currently part of Portugal’s squad for the Nations League games against Croatia and Scotland, Ronaldo approaches these matches after a disappointing Euro 2024 campaign. His performance in the tournament, where he failed to score, led to widespread criticism, with some arguing that his presence hindered the team’s progress. However, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star, now playing for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, remains resolute in his commitment to the national team.

“When the time comes, I’ll move on,” Ronaldo said, acknowledging the inevitability of his departure from international football. “If I feel like I’m no longer contributing anything, I’ll be the first to leave.”

Ronaldo’s decision to continue playing contrasts with that of his long-time teammate, Pepe, who has retired from international duty. Both were the oldest players at Euro 2024, with Ronaldo expressing admiration for Pepe’s decision to “leave through the front door.” 

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also addressed the high expectations placed on the national team during Euro 2024, which ended in a quarter-final exit to France on penalties. “People’s expectations of the national team were too high,” he reflected, implying that the criticism may have been unwarranted.

Ronaldo remains ambiguous about his future, saying last month, “I don’t know if I will retire soon, in two or three years, but probably I will retire here at Al-Nassr.” He added that when he does decide to leave the national team, it will be a spontaneous but well-considered decision, made without prior announcement.

As Ronaldo continues to navigate the twilight of his career, his legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time is firmly secured. Yet, the football world watches closely, knowing that the end of an era could come at any moment, marked by a quiet exit from the stage he has dominated for nearly two decades.