Lisbon, September 23, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Cristiano Ronaldo has made it clear that he intends to continue representing Portugal as long as he feels wanted and capable of contributing, saying he would be the first to leave if either of those conditions changes.
The 41-year-old forward had kept his international future uncertain after Portugal were eliminated by eventual champions Spain in the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in July. His inclusion in new head coach Jorge Jesus’ first squad, however, confirmed that Ronaldo remains available for national team duty.
“Whenever they say they don’t want me in the national team, I will be the first one to go. When I think I am not adding anything to the team, or that I create an atmosphere, I will be the first to go. I will take my suitcase and leave,” Ronaldo told reporters ahead of Portugal’s clash against Wales.
“The Portuguese count on me. That’s why I’m still here. Just look at the numbers; I’m sure you can make some calculations. I’m still doing well. The day they don’t count on me, no problemo, I will leave. I will always be the No. 1 fan of this federation,” he added.
Ronaldo admitted that he had considered retiring from international football after the World Cup but ultimately decided to continue following discussions with Portugal president Pedro Proença and Jesus.
“Yes, I did. Of course, I’m always thinking about my decisions, my future, and the present also. I’m a thinker; you have to think. This is why you see me here now; it means I will continue,” he said.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said he still believes he can contribute to Portugal, both through his goals and by supporting the younger players coming through the national setup.
“I still believe that I’m able to help the national team to reach what they want. I think I can give the national team my support, not only through the goals, but also outside of football,” Ronaldo said.
Ronaldo has made 233 appearances for Portugal and remains an important part of the team as Jesus begins his tenure following Roberto Martinez’s departure. Jesus, who previously coached Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, has confirmed that the veteran forward will start Portugal’s Nations League clash against Wales.
“Cristiano is a symbol of Portugal and the national team,” Jesus said.
Ronaldo is also approaching another landmark in his remarkable career. He has scored 979 goals for club and country and needs 21 more to reach 1,000.
The forward acknowledged that reaching the milestone would be significant but said he did not want to become obsessed with the target.
“It would be the cherry on the top of the cake to score my 1,000th goal with the national team. It would be the culmination of a beautiful story. I said I wanted to reach that target and I will reach that target. But I don’t have an obsession,” he said.
Ronaldo will also return to José Alvalade Stadium, where his professional career with Sporting began, for Portugal’s meeting with Wales.
“It’s a special feeling because it was there that my beautiful history started. I’m very proud of that, to play for the national team after so many years,” he said.
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