Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo recently discussed his retirement plans from both club and international football.
During a press conference before Thursday’s Nations League game against Croatia in Lisbon, the 39-year-old star mentioned he has no plans to retire from international play soon. “When the time comes, I’ll know. It won’t be a hard choice,” Ronaldo said, expressing his belief in his continued value to the Portuguese team.
“If I feel I’m no longer making a difference, I’ll step aside,” he stated, referencing his ex-teammate Pepe, who retired “with dignity” last August at age 41.
The five-time Ballon d’Or recipient, now with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia for nearly two years, did not score while participating in a record sixth European Championship this year. Despite Portugal’s quarter-final exit and subsequent media criticism, Ronaldo confirmed his commitment to the national team, supported by coach Roberto Martinez.
“The national team’s expectations were overly ambitious,” Ronaldo remarked, acknowledging that challenges in a footballer’s career spur growth.
Following the Croatia match, Portugal will stay in Lisbon to compete against Scotland on Sunday.
