Headline: Cristiano Ronaldo Retires from Portugal National Team Amid Reactions from Coach Jorge Jesus
Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to retire from the Portugal national team is sparking discussions across the world of football. Following the announcement from the 41-year-old forward, national team coach Jorge Jesus revealed that he made efforts to persuade the legendary captain to extend his international career.
In an interview with Canal 11, Coach Jesus shared that he had a conversation with Ronaldo before finalizing his first squad list, as he intended to include the forward in his plans. Nevertheless, Ronaldo opted to conclude his international journey after proudly representing Portugal for 23 years.
What Did Jorge Jesus Say About Cristiano Ronaldo’s Retirement?
“We had the opportunity to talk about this matter before the first list. I asked him to continue with me,” Jorge Jesus stated, acknowledging that he wanted the forward to remain part of the team. Despite his attempts, Jesus accepted Ronaldo’s decision with respect, recognizing the player’s choice.
The coach also paid tribute to Ronaldo, who he previously coached at Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia. “He will always be in the hearts of the Portuguese. He is a global reference, an emblem for our youth, and a fundamental piece of our national team’s history,” Jesus remarked on Ronaldo’s legacy.
Cristiano Ronaldo made his retirement official through a video on his social media platforms, in which he announced that he would no longer don the Portugal jersey. “The time has come to give the number seven shirt back to the national team of all of us. I never considered it mine alone, but for 23 years, I assumed the privilege and the enormous responsibility of wearing it,” he conveyed in his message.
With this announcement, Ronaldo concluded an illustrious international career that started in August 2003. Throughout his tenure, he played 234 matches and netted 146 goals, achieving remarkable successes including winning Euro 2016 and the 2019 and 2025 Nations Leagues, thus becoming a cornerstone of Portuguese football history.
Ronaldo’s retirement follows a period of tension within the national team. During the recent match against Norway in late September, Coach Jesus instructed Ronaldo to warm up, but ultimately decided against fielding him, highlighting their differences. Subsequently, Ronaldo departed from the Portugal training camp without authorization on September 30. The Portuguese Football Federation’s Disciplinary Council then imposed a 30-day suspension and a fine of 255 euros, coinciding with the announcement of his retirement.
