Published on August 26, 2024 at 8:45 p.m. – updated on August 26, 2024 at 8:47 p.m. Juba Touabi
Cristiano Ronaldo continues to make headlines, not only at club level, but also at national level. Despite a disappointing Euro 2024 for Portugal, the legendary striker has yet to make a decision regarding his international retirement.
Despite approaching his forties, Cristiano Ronaldo remains committed to the Portugal national team. He has not yet set a date for his international retirement, expressing his desire to continue helping his country on the international stage. The 39-year-old has made it clear that his decision to leave the national team will be taken spontaneously but thoughtfully. When I leave the national team, I will not tell anyone in advance, it will be a very spontaneous decision on my part, but also very thoughtful. At the moment, what I want is to be able to help the national team ” he confided to a Portuguese media.
Ronaldo targeting 2026 World Cup?
At the last Euro, Ronaldo failed to find the back of the net, a first for him in more than a dozen major tournaments with Portugal. The team was eliminated in the quarter-finals by France, which raised questions about the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s future with the national team. Despite his age, he still enjoys the confidence of Portugal coach Roberto Martinez. The latter believes that age should not be a determining factor as long as Cristiano Ronaldo remains fit and performing on the pitch.
The Al Nassr forward could potentially be aiming for the 2026 World Cup, although he hinted after the 2022 World Cup failure that that dream may be over. His contract with the Saudi side ends in 2025, but an extension has not been ruled out, which could see him continue to play at the highest level for a few more years. His future with the Seleção is still uncertain, but his commitment and desire to continue representing his country is clear.