A social media user claims that Cristiano Ronaldo has retired from the Portuguese national team, but this information is false.

Update

Cristiano Ronaldo officially retires from the Portuguese national team

Cristiano Ronaldo has officially transmitted his message of retirement from the Portuguese national team, thereby confirming information previously circulated on social media networks. The Portuguese stated: 'To the Portuguese people: the day has arrived to hand over the number seven jersey of the national team, a jersey that belongs to all of us.' ^[2]

Update

A social media user claims that Cristiano Ronaldo has retired from the Portuguese national team, but this is false information.

Cristiano Ronaldo's official retirement from the Portuguese national team follows in the context of a previous scandal when the star left the training camp due to dissatisfaction regarding his usage by coach Jorge Jesus. ^[3]

One week before the announcement, coach Jorge Jesus had officially included the goalkeeper in the extended squad for matches against Denmark (November 14) and Wales (November 17), believing that the situation had calmed down. ^[3]

Through his social networking platforms, Cristiano Ronaldo officially confirmed his decision to end his international career after a period of reflection. ^[3]

In the published message, Ronaldo addresses the 'Portuguese people', declaring: 'To the Portuguese people: the day has come to return the number seven jersey of the national team, which belongs to all of us.' He emphasizes that 'he never felt it was exclusively his' and mentions that 'for 23 years he had the privilege and responsibility to wear it, defend it, and take it onto stadiums around the world'. 'Today the moment has come to pass it on to the future. It is not an easy decision, because some decisions are made not just with the mind, but also with the heart,' added the goalkeeper. ^[3]

The player described the experience as 'a journey that began in August 2003 and changed my life forever'. He states that, looking back, he does not see only 'matches, goals, records or trophies', but especially 'people' and 'millions of Portuguese' who have become part of his life. ^[3]

Ronaldo highlighted that 'football is about people' and that throughout his career, he tried to overcome his limits, wanting to win, to be 'the best', and to make history. 'I was always demanding of myself', 'I made mistakes, I suffered too', but 'I never gave up' and 'I never stopped feeling proud to represent Portugal.' ^[3]

He concluded his farewell message by specifying: 'Goals come and go, trophies end up in museums, records are eventually broken. But there is something that time can never erase: the place we occupy in people's hearts. If I ever made you happy, if one of my goals ever made you embrace someone or forget a worry, I am happy'. ^[3]

Ronaldo remains the most capped player in Portuguese history, with 234 matches and 145 goals to his credit for the first team, adding 45 assists. He won three major trophies with the Seleção: the World Cup and Europe (actually Euro 2016) and the UEFA Nations League in two rounds (2018-2019 and 2024-2025). ^[3]

Update

Cristiano Ronaldo officially retires from the Portuguese national team, following the scandal with the coach

Cristiano Ronaldo decided to retire from the Portuguese national team, the climax of a recent scandal involving coach Jorge Jesus and his departure from the training camp. ^[4]

The Portuguese announced that he will never play again for his country's representative team, taking a radical decision that contradicts his previous intentions to continue and score for the national team. ^[4]

Al-Nassr's attacker left the Portugal training camp during the last action of the UEFA Nations League, being sanctioned with a one-month suspension. The announcement of retirement makes his return to the team for the November matches unlikely. ^[4]

On Instagram, the footballer sent an emotional message dedicated to his representative career and his bond with Portuguese fans. ^[4]

'Dear Portuguese, the time has come to return the number 7 jersey to the national team, which belongs to everyone. I never considered it to belong only to me. However, for 23 years I had the honor and responsibility to wear it, defend it and represent it on stadiums around the world. Now the time has come to leave it in the hands of future generations. It is not an easy choice, because some decisions are not taken just with reason, but also with the soul', wrote Ronaldo. ^[4]

'My path began in August 2003 and changed my life permanently. Now it has reached its end. When I think about everything I lived through with the national team, it’s not just matches, goals, records or trophies that come to mind. I remember people. Portuguese people living abroad who for 90 minutes felt closer to home. Millions of countrymen I have never met, but who became part of my story. Because football means much more than just a game. It means people.' ^[4]

'Throughout all these years, I tried to constantly push my limits. I wanted to win, to be the best and to leave something behind. I always demanded a lot from myself. I always wanted more and believed we could go further. I gave everything I had for this jersey.' ^[4]

'There were extraordinary days and nights, successes I will keep in my heart forever, but also defeats I still find hard to revisit. I made mistakes, I suffered, and there were times when I couldn't give the Portuguese what they so desired. But I never gave up. And, above all, I remained proud to represent Portugal.' ^[4]

'During all this time I understood some simple things. Goals are forgotten, trophies find their place in museums, and records are, sooner or later, surpassed. However, there is something that years cannot erase: the place we have in people's hearts. If I ever brought you joy, if a goal I scored made you embrace someone or forget your problems for a moment...', concluded Cristiano Ronaldo. ^[4]

With this retirement, Cristiano Ronaldo ends a 23-year adventure in the Portugal jersey. Alongside the national team, the goalkeeper won a European Championship and two UEFA Nations League trophies. ^[4]

Update

Cristiano Ronaldo has retired from the Portuguese national team after the Ronaldo Legend scandal

Superstar Cristiano Ronaldo announced his definitive withdrawal from the Portuguese football team in a statement published on his Instagram platform, according to AFP, reports AGERPRES. ^[5]

41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo decided to end his international career after a scandal related to sanctions imposed by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) for his participation in the launch of his father's book, an act considered unprofessional. ^[5]

Update

Cristiano Ronaldo officially retired from the Portuguese national team after a scandal with the coach

At 41 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo officially announced his retirement from the Portuguese national team, ending a glorious 23-year adventure during which he set absolute records for caps and goals scored at the international level. ^[6]

The retirement announcement, considered a decision taken from the heart, comes in the context of a recent conflict between the footballer and coach Jorge Jesus, which led to him leaving the training camp and being suspended. ^[6]

The superstar openly clashed with coach Jorge Jesus, receiving a 30-day suspension and a fine of 255 euros after leaving the training camp in September. This incident occurred after Ronaldo was kept on the bench for the match against Wales, the match that remained his last appearance for the national team. ^[6]

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) immediately reacted through an official statement, expressing its 'deepest and lasting gratitude towards its eternal captain' and announcing that it is preparing a tribute worthy of his fantastic career. ^[6]

In his farewell speech, Cristiano Ronaldo explained the reasons behind this complex choice and recalled the moments that marked his career with the first national team. Cotidianul A post distributed by Cristiano Ronaldo (@cristiano) Instagram post confirms the official end of Ronaldo's activity with the national team. ^[6]

The full message from Cristiano Ronaldo: 'The number 7 jersey never belonged only to me'. The complete speech of the legendary Portuguese striker reveals the motivation and feelings behind the decision. ^[6]

'The day has arrived when I must hand back the number 7 jersey of our national team. I never felt it belonged only to me. However, for 23 years, I had the privilege and responsibility to wear it, to defend it, and to carry it with me to stadiums around the world. 'Today, the moment has come to pass it on to the future. It was not an easy decision. Because some decisions are not made just with the mind. They are made with the heart as well. ^[6]

'A journey that began in August 2003 and changed my life forever has ended. When I look back at everything I experienced alongside the national team, I don't see just matches, goals, records or trophies. 'I see people. I see Portuguese abroad who, for 90 minutes, felt a little closer to home. I see millions of Portuguese I have never met, but who have become part of my life. Because, at the end of the day, football is much more than a game. Football is about people. ^[6]

'Throughout my entire career with the national team, I constantly pushed my limits. I wanted to win, I wanted to be better, I wanted to make history. I always asked for the best from myself. I always wanted more. I always believed we could go further. And I gave everything best I had for this jersey. ^[6]

'There were perfect afternoons and nights. There are victories that I will never forget. There are defeats that still hurt to remember. 'I made mistakes. I suffered. There were also moments when I couldn't offer the Portuguese what they so desired. But I never gave up. And, above all, I never ceased to be proud to represent Portugal. ^[6]

'Over the years, I learned a few very simple things: Goals fade. Trophies go to museums. Records are, ultimately, broken. But there is something that time will never be able to erase: the place we occupy in people's hearts. If I ever made you happy, if one of my goals ever made you embrace someone, forget a worry, or feel proud of your country, then everything was worth it. Because being Portuguese means that too. We suffer together. We rise together. We believe again. ^[6]

Update

A social media user claims that Cristiano Ronaldo has retired from the Portuguese national team, but this is false information.

Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football, ending a record career in the Portugal national team jersey. The 41-year-old attacker is the top scorer in the history of men's football at the national team level and one of the most capped players of all time. The decision marks the end of a chapter that began in 2003, when Ronaldo debuted for the Portuguese first team. Over the years, he became the symbol of the generation that brought the country its first European title in 2016 and won the Nations League twice, in 2019 and 2025. Cristiano Ronaldo was suspended for 30 days and fined 255 euros after leaving the Portugal training camp. ^[9]

Cristiano Ronaldo's records at the Portuguese national team Ronaldo scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, both figures representing world records in men's football. He participated in six World Cup editions, becoming the first footballer to score at six consecutive final tournaments of this type. Among his most important achievements are winning the European Championship in 2016 and the Nations League in 2019 and 2025. Although he was injured in the Euro 2016 final and had to leave the field, Ronaldo encouraged his teammates from the sidelines, and Portugal defeated France 1-0. ^[9]

The conflict with the coach and the fine received from the federation The retirement announcement comes after a tense period for the Portugal captain. In September, Ronaldo left the national training camp before the match against Denmark, after having been an unused substitute in the match against Norway. The footballer accused coach Jorge Jesus of not respecting his promises regarding his role in the team. The coach denied that any understanding existed on this matter. On October 19, the Portuguese Football Federation applied a 30-day suspension and a fine of 255 euros to Ronaldo. Part of the suspension had already been served, and the footballer apologized for leaving the training camp and for his behavior towards teammates and supporters. At that time, Ronaldo said he remained available for the national team after serving the sanction. The announced retirement marks a change from the position expressed then. ^[9]

Cristiano Ronaldo, a career that transcended the borders of Portugal At club level, Ronaldo played for Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Al-Nassr. He won the Ballon d'Or five times and won the Champions League five times, becoming one of the most decorated and prolific strikers of his generation. Retirement from the national team does not automatically mean the end of his playing career. Ronaldo continues to compete at the club level for the Saudi side Al-Nassr. ^[9]

The Portuguese Football Federation reacted after Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from the national team. The body chaired by Pedro Proença transmitted that it does not want the end of the 23 years spent by the attacker in the Portugal jersey to pass without a special moment dedicated to his career. In an official statement published on Thursday, the Federation expressed its 'deep gratitude' towards the 41-year-old footballer and announced its intention to organize a tribute involving fans and the entire nation. The Portuguese forum highlighted Ronaldo's contribution to the national team results, as well as the records set throughout his international career. The attacker collected 234 caps and scored 146 goals for Portugal, performances presented by the Federation as world records in men's football. In the 23 years spent with the national team, Ronaldo contributed to winning three trophies: the 2016 European Championship and the Nations League in 2019 and 2025. The FPF described him as an 'inspirational leader', an 'example of dedication', and a symbol of the national team. 'Every drop of sweat, every decisive goal and every moment in which he wore the captain's armband on the field with honor reflected his unconditional love for our jersey', the Federation transmitted. The institution also specified that the footballer made the name of Portugal known worldwide and influenced generations of young players. 'The Portuguese Football Federation does not accept that this goodbye takes place without a fitting tribute', the statement reads. The forum announced that it will work on organizing an event through which fans can celebrate the attacker's career. ^[8]

Cristiano Ronaldo made the announcement on Thursday through a video published on his Instagram account. The footballer transmitted that the period spent with the national team had ended and that it was time to hand over the number 7 jersey. 'Today, my journey alongside the national selection ends', said the attacker. 'The day has come to return the number 7 jersey to the national team, which belongs to all of us. I never felt it was exclusively mine, but for 23 years I had the privilege and responsibility to wear it', he added. The announcement came three weeks after the Discipline Commission of the Portuguese Football Federation sanctioned him with a 30-day suspension and a fine of 255 euros, the minimum amount provided by regulations. The sanction was applied after Ronaldo left the national team training camp on September 30. ^[8]

Update

Cristiano Ronaldo officially retires from the Portuguese national team

End of an era in international football. Cristiano Ronaldo has officially announced his retirement from the Portuguese national team. ^[7]

Cristiano Ronaldo made the announcement through an emotional message, after 23 years of activity for the national team. The goalkeeper handed over the number 7 jersey. ^[7]

'To the Portuguese people: the day has come to return the number 7 jersey of the national team, which belongs to all of us. I never felt it was exclusively mine. But for 23 years I had the privilege and responsibility to wear it, to defend it and to take it with me to stadiums across the globe. Today the moment has come to hand it over to the future. It is not an easy decision, because some decisions are taken not only with the mind, but also with the heart. A journey that began in August 2003 and changed my life forever has come to an end. ^[7]

The decision comes in the context of a recent scandal and suspension. Ronaldo received a 30-day sanction and a fine of 255 euros, issued by the Portuguese Football Federation, for leaving the national team training camp after a conflict with coach Jorge Jesus. ^[7]

The incident started in September, after the match against Norway. Although Cristiano Ronaldo claims he was promised 30 minutes of playing time, he remained on the bench for the entire match. He complained about the broken word and loss of confidence, which is why he decided to leave the training camp before the match against Denmark. ^[7]

Coach Jorge Jesus denied the existence of any agreement. The Federation opened disciplinary proceedings, considering that the footballer had intentionally violated the regulations. Later, Ronaldo apologized for leaving his colleagues and not greeting the fans after the match against Norway. ^[7]

Cristiano Ronaldo is the most important player in the history of the Portuguese national team. He debuted with the first representative team on August 20, 2003, and scored his first goal at the 2004 European Championship. Since 2008, he has worn the captain's armband, becoming the leader of the generation that brought the country's most important achievements. ^[7]

The attacker played 234 matches for the national team, scored 146 goals, and provided 45 assists. He is the all-time record holder for the Portuguese first representative team, both in terms of caps and goals. ^[7]

Update

Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from the Portuguese national team

Cristiano Ronaldo announced his official retirement from the Portuguese national team, in a message posted on Instagram, after a controversial break caused by the conflict with coach Jorge Jesus and the sanctions applied by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF). His farewell message includes a reflection on the 23 years spent with the national team, starting from August 2003, and reaffirms the deep bond between the player and the 'Portuguese people', whom he describes as being 'part of his life'. ^[10]

Upon returning to the national team after at least one match (with the Scandinavian countries), after the conflict and punishment in September, Ronaldo will be alongside his group-mates in the matches against Switzerland and Romania. Ronaldo is, by far, the all-time record holder for Portugal, with 234 matches and 146 goals (plus 45 assists, making him the fourth-best passer in team history), and is also the top scorer of the men's national team worldwide. Among his most important achievements at the national level are winning the European Championship in 2016 and the Nations League in 2019 and 2025. He was the captain of the leading generation that brought Portugal its first major trophies in the modern era. ^[10]

The last match played in the national jersey was the victory against Wales (1-0) on September 24, 2026, in Stage 2 of Group A4 of the Nations League. The last goals scored took place in the period before the scandal, in Ronaldo's nest on the continent: on March 24, 2026, in a 1-1 draw with Turkey in the Euro 2028 qualifiers, and subsequently, at the 2026 World Cup. ^[10]

Ronaldo scored his last appearance in the Portugal jersey in the final stages of the 2026 World Cup, held in Canada and the USA. In the Round of 16 in Toronto, on July 3, 2026, he converted a penalty kick in the 2-1 victory against Croatia, the second goal for Portugal. ^[10]

Ronaldo sent a message recalling key moments in the national jersey, stating that 'Portugal will always be part of me'. The Al-Nassr player specified that he 'will never represent Portugal again'. ^[10]

This is the first message where Ronaldo does not appear visibly (only the voice is heard), but his farewell message was formed in a classic way and recalling key moments in the national jersey, saying that 'he will never represent Portugal again'. The Al-Nassr player specified that 'he will never represent Portugal again'. Additionally, he left an emotional centered screen message. ^[10]

Farewell message: 'I never felt it was exclusively mine, but for 23 years I had the privilege and responsibility to wear it, to defend it and to take it with me to stadiums around the world. Today the moment has come to hand it over to the future. ^[10]

'It was not an easy decision, because there are decisions that are not made just with the mind, but with the heart. A journey that began in August 2003 and changed my life forever has come to an end. ^[10]

'When I look back and think about everything I lived in the national team, I don't just see matches, goals, records or trophies. I see people. I see immigrants who, for 90 minutes, felt Portugal a little closer. I see millions of Portuguese I have never personally met, but who are part of my life. After all, football is much more than a game. Football means people. ^[10]

'Throughout my entire career in the national team I sought to push my limits: I wanted to win, to do better, to write history. I was always demanding of myself. I always wanted more. I always believed we could reach further and gave everything I had for this jersey. ^[10]

'There were perfect afternoons and evenings, victories that I will never forget and defeats that I still find hard to remember. I failed too, I suffered too, there were also moments when I couldn't give the Portuguese what they so desperately wanted, but I never gave up and, above all, I never ceased to be proud to represent Portugal. ^[10]

Referring to his legacy, Ronaldinho mentioned that 'goals pass, records remain in museums, but there is something that time never manages to erase: the place we occupy in people's hearts. ^[10]

'Throughout these years I have learned very simple things: goals pass, records remain in museums, records come to be surpassed, but there is something that time never manages to erase: the place we occupy in people's hearts. ^[10]

'If I ever made you happy, if a goal of mine determined you to embrace someone, forget a worry or feel proud of our country, then everything was worth it, because that also means to be Portuguese. We suffer together, we rise together. We believe again. ^[10]

Ronaldo concluded the address to future generations: 'Portugal will always need young people who dream, players who do not give up, new generations who believe that it is possible to reach where no one has ever reached, because a country that continues to create new heroes is a country that never stops believing in itself'. ^[10]

The superstar addressed a special message to his national team colleagues, coaches, managers, doctors, physiotherapists, dressing room attendants, and all employees who worked alongside him over the years. ^[10]

'To my national team colleagues, I want to say a few special words to them. Thank you for every run, for every hug, for every conversation, for every moment of silence before going onto the pitch, for every victory we celebrated together and for every defeat that made us stronger. I had the privilege to be your captain, but no captain goes alone, and you are part of my history. ^[10]

'To all coaches, managers, doctors, physiotherapists, dressing room attendants, staff members and so many people who have worked alongside me throughout all these years, thank you. Many of you never appeared in photographs, but without you none of those photographs would have been possible. ^[10]

'To my family, thank you for sharing this dream with me, thank you for understanding the absences, the sacrifices and the moments when the national team had to occupy a space that belonged to you. If I got so far, it was because we always went hand in hand. ^[10]

'And to the Portuguese, to all scattered around the world, I want to tell you one last thing: there is an image that I will keep with me always, the moment when the national anthem begins. I look around, I see my colleagues, the stands, I see children, mothers, fathers and grandparents, Portuguese who have come from so far just to be there. In those minutes, we cease to be different. There are no longer clubs, social classes, colors, professions, there are no longer opinions. There is only one passion: Portugal! ^[10]

Update

Cristiano Ronaldo would not have informed Jorge Jesus that he is retiring from the national team

According to the Portuguese daily A Bola, Cristiano Ronaldo did not inform coach Jorge Jesus about his retirement from the Portuguese national team, although he communicated the decision to the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, Pedro Proença. The scandal between the Al Nassr star and the coach arose in September, when Ronaldo left the training camp after being kept on the bench for the match against Wales. Although initially it was believed that Jesus would summon the attacker for the Nations League matches against Denmark and Wales, Ronaldo had already made the decision to retire as early as September. Officially, Ronaldo, the most capped player in Portuguese history with 234 matches and 146 goals, declared: 'Portugal will always remain in my heart. The time has come to withdraw the number 7 jersey of the national team. I never felt it belonged to me, but for 23 years I had the privilege and responsibility to wear it'. Individually, Ronaldo has scored 985 career goals, being just 15 away from the symbolic record of 1,000 goals. With the national team, he won Euro 2016 and the Nations League. ^[12]

The Portuguese daily A Bola claims that Cristiano Ronaldo did not communicate with coach Jorge Jesus although the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, Pedro Proença, sent a public appreciation message to the star, emphasizing that he will be 'much more than just a player' for the country and an inspiration model 'for all who dream of surpassing themselves every day'. Proença noted that 'Cristiano's present is linked to Portugal like a destiny', but not his future. ^[11]

The national team coach intended to summon the 41-year-old attacker for Portugal's next two Nations League matches, which will take place during the competitive break next week, but the five-time Ballon d'Or winner decided otherwise. ^[11]

Update

The President of Portugal pays tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo

The President of the Portuguese Republic, António José Seguro, reacted to the announcement of Cristiano Ronaldo's retirement from international football, thanking him for the way he represented the national team and inspired the Portuguese people. 'I imagine this must be one of the most difficult days in Cristiano Ronaldo's sporting career, but I am sure that, as has happened countless times, the Portuguese stand by him', the president wrote on Instagram, emphasizing that Portugal will always be able to count on Ronaldo's love for the country. ^[13]

Update

Cristiano Ronaldo would not have informed Jorge Jesus that he is retiring from the national team

Cristiano Ronaldo informed the President of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), Pedro Proença, about his retirement from the national team, but did not communicate this decision to the national team coach, Jorge Jesus, with whom he is in open conflict, claims the Portuguese daily A Bola. ^[14]

Coach Jorge Jesus intended to summon Ronaldo for Portugal's next two Nations League matches, scheduled during the competitive break next week, but the 41-year-old player decided otherwise. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner did not respond to the federation official's intention to temporarily reintegrate him into the squad, consolidating the distance created by the scandal of September 2026. ^[14]

Pedro Proença sent Ronaldo a long message on social networks, highlighting his importance for the country. ^[14]

Update

FIFA and UEFA pay tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo's retirement

FIFA and UEFA issued official tributes on the occasion of Cristiano Ronaldo's announcement of retirement from international football. The two profile institutions highlighted the star's global records and cultural impact. The International Football Federation praised 'Cristiano's extraordinary contribution to the development of football at a global level', appreciating his 'sporting excellence throughout a notable career' and highlighting the positive impact exerted on generations of young footballers. UEFA, the European confederation's body, named him 'a symbol and an exceptional model' for his 'rare dedication to the world's favorite sport', congratulating him for his 'remarkable performances and his dedication to football'. British MP Richard Fuller proposed that the British Parliament knight him, a proposal supported by millions of people through the Change.org platform. ^[15]

Update

Ronaldo retires from the Portuguese national team a day after learning he will be summoned by Jesus

Cristiano Ronaldo decided to end his career with the Portuguese national team, announcing retirement a day before coach Jorge Jesus made public the list for the next two matches. According to the Portuguese press, Ronaldo learned that he would be summoned for the Nations League matches against Denmark and Wales. Not wishing to collaborate with the current coach, the player chose to declare his retirement before the publication of the list. ^[16]

According to the publication A Bola, the decision is directly linked to the previous conflict with Jorge Jesus, during which Ronaldo accused the coach of unpredictability regarding his playing time. Ronaldo did not intend to return to the first national team while the current technical staff remained in office, even though public statements suggested otherwise. The information details the causes of the conflict. ^[16]

After finding out that he would be summoned, Ronaldo decided to announce his retirement to avoid a possible scandal if he didn't show up to the reunion or if he remained on the bench. Jesus intended to summon him. ^[16]

Communicating the decision was done without prior discussions with Jorge Jesus. However, Ronaldo held multiple discussions with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), Pedro Proença. Proença tried to convince the player not to give up immediately, proposing that he play at least one match on home soil, possibly with a retirement ceremony. ^[16]

Ronaldo rejected the proposal to play another match, but the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) announced that it still intends to organize a retirement match for him. ^[16]

Update

Ronaldo retired a day before the call-up

Cristiano Ronaldo announced his official retirement from the Portuguese national team just one day before coach Jorge Jesus published the list of call-ups for the next two Nations League matches against Denmark and Wales. According to reports published by the newspaper A Bola, the decisive reason was Ronaldo's refusal to continue wearing the national jersey while Jorge Jesus remains the coach. The player communicated his decision when he discovered that he would be included in the squad. ^[17]

Tensions between Ronaldo and Jesus escalated during the previous training camp action, when the goalkeeper left the national team camp and accused the coach of promising more playing time than actually given, while, in his public statements, Jesus denied any such understanding. Analysts and the Portuguese press suggest that, in the absence of the retirement announcement, a new scandal was expected, because Jesus would have published the list of call-ups, and Ronaldo would have abstained from showing up, knowing that he would not resume the status of starter. ^[17]

Ronaldo made the decision to retire without holding any prior discussion with Jorge Jesus, but discussed the situation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), Pedro Proença. Pedro Proença encouraged the Al-Nassr star to appear at least for one final home match, specially organized as a retirement event and tribute, but Ronaldo firmly refused this option. ^[17]

Despite the player's refusal to play a final match, the FPF announced that it intends to organize a special tribute for him. The president of the Romanian forum highlighted Ronaldo's crucial role in raising the prestige of Portuguese football and inspiring younger generations. 'We refuse to allow the retirement to happen without a tribute. It is our firm and immense desire to organize, plan, participate and collaborate for a tribute that Cristiano Ronaldo's extraordinary career deserves, in which fans and the country can applaud and celebrate, once again, the player who gave us so much', the FPF transmitted. The Federation's statement ended with a message of admiration and hope for Ronaldo's next big record: 'Thank you for everything, captain! This will always be your home! To reach the 1,000th goal'. ^[17]

Update

Jorge Jesus accepts Ronaldo's retirement

Coach Jorge Jesus expressed his acceptance of Cristiano Ronaldo's decision to end his career with the Portuguese national team, telling Canal 11, according to A Bola, that 'it is entirely his decision'. The coach acknowledged that he had asked the player to stay, needing his presence, but respected his choice. The relationship between Ronaldo and Jorge Jesus, which was good when both were active at Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, deteriorated significantly in September. The tensions led to Ronaldo's dramatic departure from the national training camp during a Nations League camp, at which moment the attacker felt two 'betrayals' from his coach. Ronaldo invoked statements relating to two betrayals from the coach, referring to the non-communication of promised playing time and non-appearance at a call-up. These elements were the basis of the rupture of the relationship, which no longer allowed a return to the squad. Even though Rafael benfica applied a 30-day suspension and a fine of 255 euros, opening the possibility of a return in November, Ronaldo decided to close this chapter before Jesus made the list of call-ups public. The selector wished to honor his former collaborator, defining him as an 'icon for Portugal' and a symbol for young footballers. Through this retirement, 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo closes a major chapter of a record career, marking the end of an era in international football. ^[18]

Update

Jorge Jesus respects Ronaldo's retirement decision, hailing him as an 'icon'

Jorge Jesus, coach of the Portuguese national team, reacted to Cristiano Ronaldo's announcement regarding retirement from international football, expressing his acceptance of the decision. In a statement given to Canal 11, cited by A Bola, the selector declared: 'It is entirely his decision. We already had the chance to discuss this before his first call-up. I asked him to stay, to stay with me because I needed him beside me, but I must accept his decision' Cotidianul. Jesus acknowledged that he tried to convince the Portuguese to continue, given the team's dependence on his presence, but emphasized the importance of respecting the player's choice. The coach honored the legendary striker, defining him as an 'icon for Portugal' and a symbol for generations of young footballers. 'He is a global reference, an icon for Portugal, an icon for the national team. He is a player who, over the years, has given so much to the national team. He is a symbol for Portuguese youth', Jesus specified. 'He will always remain a benchmark for our national team, for our people and for our history. He will remain forever in the hearts of the Portuguese people', he added Cotidianul. ^[19]

The relationship between Cristiano Ronaldo and Jorge Jesus deteriorated significantly in late September, after Ronaldo left the national training camp. The attacker accused the coach of two 'betrayals': non-communication of promised playing time and non-appearance at a call-up. Although the two were close during the period when they worked together at Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, the conflict led to the rupture of the relationship Cotidianul. ^[19]

Cristiano Ronaldo decided to announce his retirement one day before Jorge Jesus published the list of call-ups for the Nations League matches against Denmark and Wales. The player was informed that he would be included in the squad, but refused to collaborate with the current technical staff. The decision to retire was made without prior discussions with Jesus, but he held multiple negotiations with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), Pedro Proença Cotidianul. ^[19]

Pedro Proença tried to convince Ronaldo to play at least one final home match, in the form of a retirement ceremony. The Al-Nassr star firmly rejected this proposal. Despite the rejection, the FPF announced that it intends to organize a special tribute to celebrate the player's career, refusing to let the 'goodbye' pass without a tribute Cotidianul. ^[19]

Cristiano Ronaldo ended a 23-year international career, becoming the most capped and best-scorer in Portuguese history. His records at the national level include 234 matches (according to Statista data) and 145-146 goals, plus 45 assists. At the career level, the star has scored a total of 985 goals, being just 15 away from the symbolic record of 1,000 goals, according to information brought by Portuguese sources Cotidianul. ^[19]

Ronaldo won three major trophies with the national team: the European Championship in 2016 and the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025. He is also the first footballer to score at six consecutive World Cups (2006-2026) and the fourth-best passer in team history Cotidianul. ^[19]

The official retirement announcement was made through a long and emotional message distributed on Cristiano Ronaldo's Instagram account on Friday, November 6, 2026. The message was an appeal to the legacy left and a tribute to people and supporters Cotidianul. ^[19]

Ronaldo's farewell message: 'The day has arrived when I must hand back the number 7 jersey of our national team. I never felt it belonged only to me. However, for 23 years, I had the privilege and responsibility to wear it, to defend it, and to carry it with me to stadiums around the world. Today, the moment has come to pass it on to the future. It was not an easy decision. Because some decisions are not made just with the mind. They are made with the heart as well' Cotidianul. ^[19]

Continuation of the message: 'A journey that began in August 2003 and changed my life forever has ended. When I look back at everything I experienced alongside the national team, I don't see just matches, goals, records or trophies. I see people. I see Portuguese abroad who, for 90 minutes, felt a little closer to home. I see millions of Portuguese I have never met, but who have become part of my life. Because, at the end of the day, football is much more than a game. Football is about people' Cotidianul. ^[19]

Farewell message, extracted by Cotidianul: 'Throughout my entire career at the national team, I always pushed my limits. I wanted to win, I wanted to be better, I wanted to make history. I always asked for the most from myself. I always wanted more. I always believed we could go further. And I gave my best for this jersey. There were perfect afternoons and nights. There are victories that I will never forget. There are defeats that still hurt to remember. I made mistakes. I suffered. There were also moments when I couldn't offer the Portuguese what they so dearly wanted. But I never gave up. And, above all, I never ceased to be proud to represent Portugal' Cotidianul. ^[19]

Farewell message, extracted by Cotidianul: 'Over the years, I learned a few very simple things: Goals fade. Trophies go to museums. Records are, ultimately, broken. But there is something that time will never be able to erase: the place we occupy in people's hearts. If I ever made you happy, if one of my goals ever made you embrace someone, forget a worry, or feel proud of your country, then everything was worth it. Because being Portuguese means that too. We suffer together. We rise together. We believe again' Cotidianul. ^[19]

Farewell message, extracted by Cotidianul: 'Portugal will always need young people who dare to dream. Players who never give up. New generations who believe that it is possible to reach where no one has ever reached before. Because a country that continues to create new heroes is a country that never stops believing in itself' Cotidianul. ^[19]

Farewell message, extracted by Cotidianul: 'To my teammates, I want to say something special to them. Thank you for every run. For every hug. For every dispute. For every moment of silence before going onto the pitch. For every victory we celebrated together. And for every defeat that made us stronger. I had the privilege of being your captain, but no captain goes alone. And you will always be part of my story. To all coaches, directors, doctors, physiotherapists, equipment managers, staff members and so many others who have worked alongside me throughout these years: Thank you. Many of you never appeared in photographs. But without you, none of those photographs would have been possible' Cotidianul. ^[19]

Farewell message, extracted by Cotidianul: 'To my family: Thank you for sharing this dream with me. Thank you for understanding the absences, the sacrifices and the moments when the national team had to occupy a space in my life that belonged to you. If I got so far, it was because we always went hand in hand. You know the people from Portugal. To each Portuguese, wherever you are in the world, there is one last thing I want to tell you. There is an image that I will carry with me forever. The moment when our national anthem begins. I look around. I see my colleagues. I see the stands. I see children, mothers, fathers and grandparents. I see Portuguese who have traveled so far just to be there. And for those few minutes, all our differences disappear. There are no clubs. There are no colors. There are no social classes. There are no professions. There are no opinions. There is only one passion: Portugal. This is the feeling that I will carry with me for the rest of my life' Cotidianul. ^[19]

Farewell message, extracted by Cotidianul: 'Today, my journey on the field alongside the national team ends. I leave with my head held high, proud of the path I have traveled and knowing that I gave everything I had for Portugal. But I will never cease to be one of you. I will continue to suffer, encourage, and celebrate every Portuguese victory with a Siuuu! I spent my life working to be the best player in the world. Today, I realize that my greatest victory was obtaining the honor of representing the best country in the world. Thank you for these 23 years. Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for letting me live a dream that began when I was just a boy from Madeira, chasing a football. The number 7 jersey will remain. The pride of having worn it will be mine forever. Portugal will always be a part of me. Goodbye, until we meet again, Cristiano Ronaldo' Cotidianul. ^[19]