The 41‑year‑old five‑time Ballon d’Or winner told reporters that he had indeed considered hanging up his international boots after the summer tournament, but a conversation with the Portuguese Football Federation’s president and head coach Jorge Jesus convinced him to stay on until he feels he can no longer contribute.
Ronaldo, who turns 42 in February, will line up for Portugal in the home fixture against Wales on Thursday, a Nations League opener that also marks his 234th appearance for the national side. Coach Jorge Jesus confirmed the veteran’s inclusion in the starting eleven.
The match will be played at the José Alvalade Stadium, the former home of Ronaldo’s first professional club Sporting CP. Some commentators have speculated the game could be his international swan song, but Ronaldo said he will retire only when “I feel like I’m not doing anything here.”
In a recent interview, the forward said he remains motivated to help Portugal achieve its objectives and to mentor the younger generation, adding that his contribution goes beyond scoring goals. He also expressed a personal ambition to reach 1,000 career goals, though he clarified that the milestone is not an obsession.
Welsh forward Craig Bellamy, ahead of his side’s encounter with Portugal, praised Ronaldo’s longevity and impact, noting that the Portuguese star’s name will be remembered for “hundreds and hundreds of years.” Bellamy dismissed talk of a 1,000‑goal tally as “silly,” but admitted he hopes the legend continues to thrive on the pitch.
A poll conducted by Portuguese newspaper A Bola before the game showed readers omitting Ronaldo from their preferred starting line‑up, a sign of the mixed public sentiment surrounding his prolonged career. Ronaldo responded by acknowledging criticism from some media outlets while affirming his commitment to the national team.