Portugal’s next international window opens with Cristiano Ronaldo still at the centre of the national side, even as the 41-year-old reflects openly on the point at which he will step away. After the 2026 World Cup, the Portuguese return to UEFA Nations League duty with Wales awaiting them on 24 September.
Ronaldo sees a continuing role with Portugal
The forward said his international future will not be decided by a fixed date or appearance target. Instead, he intends to remain available while he believes he can contribute to Portugal’s ambitions, both on the pitch and within a squad being refreshed by younger players.
- Questions over Ronaldo’s future have intensified following Lionel Messi’s departure from Argentina’s national team.
- Ronaldo said he had spoken with both the Portuguese Football Federation president and the national-team coach about his situation.
- He explained that he will leave only when he no longer feels capable of helping the side.
- His contribution, he said, goes beyond goals: his experience can also assist new players entering the Portugal set-up.
“I am a reflective person and these things have to be considered,” Ronaldo said. “I am here now because I believe I can still help the national team reach its goals. I will stop when I feel that I no longer bring anything to this group. I can support the team through goals, but also beyond football.”
A divided debate, but no change of mind
Ronaldo acknowledged that his continued selection divides opinion in Portugal. While many supporters want him to remain involved, others believe the time has come for the team to move on from its long-serving captain.
He said criticism, particularly from television commentators, has become familiar during a career spanning more than two decades. Ronaldo insisted that he retains the right to make the final decision on his Portugal career and said he prefers to hold on to the support he receives from fans.
“I feel appreciated by the Portuguese public, although I understand that some television channels want to criticise me,” he said. “They have tried to finish me off, but only with a shotgun. They are eager for me to stop going to the national team, but I can still choose to step away myself. I am used to it after more than 20 years, and I keep the memories of the people who care about me.”
Wales next in the Nations League
Portugal’s first assignment after their World Cup elimination comes on Thursday, 24 September, when they face Wales in the opening round of the UEFA Nations League. Kick-off is scheduled for 12:45pm Central Mexico time, with Sky Sports and Disney+ listed as broadcasters.
For Portugal, the road towards the 2030 World Cup begins with an established leader still present, but with a generational transition gathering behind him. Ronaldo has made clear that, for now, he sees himself as part of that journey.
