Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that he will retire from the Portugal national team, ending a 23-year international career. The 41-year-old made the announcement on Thursday in an emotional video message posted on social media and said his Portugal journey will conclude after the November international break. He leaves the national team with 234 appearances, 146 goals, multiple trophies and countless memories as one of the greatest stars in football history.
In his message to the Portuguese people, Ronaldo said the decision was not easy for him. He said playing for the national team changed his life forever and that representing Portugal was not only about football but also about pride and responsibility. Ronaldo said he wants to leave with his head held high after giving everything for his country, adding that even if the No. 7 jersey passes to someone else, the pride of wearing it will remain with him. “Portugal will always be in me,” he wrote on X.
The retirement announcement comes amid tension between Ronaldo and Portugal coach Jorge Jesus. The dispute began with the Nations League match against Norway, when Jesus did not include Ronaldo in the starting XI or use him as a substitute. Ronaldo claimed the coach told him he would play 30 minutes but later changed that decision, damaging their trust. He subsequently left the Portugal camp before the match against Denmark. Jesus said there was no conflict between them but made clear that selecting the starting XI and substitutes is the coach’s responsibility. Ronaldo later explained his position in a long social media statement and apologised to his teammates and Portugal fans. The Portuguese Football Federation also said it would accept the punishment for his departure from the national camp. Within weeks, he announced his retirement.
Ronaldo made his Portugal debut against Kazakhstan in August 2003. Over 23 years, he set record after record and holds the men’s international records for most appearances, with 234 matches, and most goals, with 146. His achievements with Portugal include the Euro 2016 title under his leadership, the 2019 UEFA Nations League crown and the 2025 Nations League title, in which he played an important role. He has also scored in six World Cups, including the 2026 tournament.
Although his national team chapter is closing, Ronaldo’s club career continues with Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr. He is approaching 1,000 career goals for club and country, with recent figures putting his total at 979. The time has come to take off the No. 7 jersey he wore when he began his international career in 2003, but his place in Portugal’s football history is expected to remain intact for a long time.
Original Source: https://assam.nenow.in/cristiano-ronaldo-announces-retirement-from-international-football/
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Publish Date: 2026-11-05 19:56:00
