Lisbon: Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that he seriously considered retiring from international football after the 2026 World Cup but ultimately decided to continue his glittering career because he believes he can still help Portugal achieve further success.
The 41-year-old had previously confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup would be his final appearance at the tournament. His future with Portugal after the World Cup, however, remained uncertain.
Ronaldo has now been named in Jorge Jesus’ 25-man Portugal squad for the Nations League campaign. Portugal will begin its campaign against Wales in Lisbon on Thursday night.
Just 21 Goals Away From 1,000
Alongside his ambitions with Portugal, Ronaldo is chasing one of the most remarkable individual milestones in football — 1,000 career goals.
The Al-Nassr forward revealed that he needs just 21 more goals to reach the landmark figure.
Asked whether he had considered retiring from international football after the World Cup, Ronaldo admitted that he had.
“Yes, I did,” Ronaldo said, explaining that he regularly thinks about his decisions, future and present.
Ronaldo Still Believes He Can Help Portugal
Ronaldo said discussions with the Portuguese president and national team coach played a role in his decision to continue.
The former Sporting, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus star believes he can still contribute to the national team, both on and off the pitch.
He stressed that his value to Portugal is not limited to scoring goals, with his experience and leadership also important to the squad.
Third Nations League Title in Sight
Ronaldo is already a two-time UEFA Nations League winner with Portugal. He now wants to add another title to his international trophy collection.
The veteran forward said both of his objectives — reaching 1,000 career goals and helping Portugal win the Nations League — are important.
For Ronaldo, the Nations League represents another opportunity to add silverware to an extraordinary international career, while the pursuit of 1,000 goals gives him a major personal target to chase.
At 41, the Portuguese icon continues to set ambitious goals. With retirement postponed for now, Ronaldo’s focus is firmly on helping Portugal succeed while moving closer to one of football’s most extraordinary individual milestones.
