Ronaldo explained why he did not finish his career in the national team after the World Cup-2026

Five Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo has thought of ending his career with Portugal after the 2026 World Cup but believes he can still help the national team. This 41-year-old footballer said at a press conference before the upcoming matches of the League of Nations.

“I always think about my decisions, I weigh everything. You see me here, so I decided to continue. I spoke to the president [of the Portuguese Football Federation Pedro Proenza] and the coach [Jorges Jesouch], they are counting on me. I think I can continue to help the national team, not only with goals, but with the new generation coming. But the most important thing is to go on the field and keep scoring, Ronaldo said.

Asked if he would continue to play until Euro 28, Ronaldo said: I only think about the present moment. I know a lot of people want me to leave right now, but I’m motivated by the people who want me in the game. Will this be the last year? Perhaps we will see – a lot will depend on the state of my body. I really don't know, I speak from the heart.

Ronaldo said he was ready to replace him. I am ready to perform any task of the coach: to enter the starting line-up, to replace or even to remain in reserve. No one has more games for the national team than me and I am here because I want to help the team. I know that the coach counts on me and I am here not because of my past merits, but because of the way I play for the club, said the Portuguese, who plays for Saudi al-Nasr.

The striker stressed that as soon as he feels that he is no longer useful or that there is a bad atmosphere in the team, he “will pack his things first and leave.”.

At the moment, Ronaldo has 979 goals in official career matches. “I know I’m going to reach 1,000 goals, but it’s not an obsession. The main thing is to enjoy the process, although, of course, I really want to set this record.