Cristiano Ronaldo has said he intends to remain available for Portugal, despite speculation that he could retire from international football after leaving the squad before their UEFA Nations League match against Denmark.
The 41-year-old Portugal captain departed the team’s training camp ahead of the third round of the group stage, reportedly in objection to comments made by manager Jorge Jesus. His decision prompted widespread reports that Ronaldo was considering ending his international career.
However, comments published by Portuguese newspapers on Tuesday made clear that he still wants to compete for his country. The remarks were highlighted by Portuguese newspaper A Bola.
“I have heard a lot about farewell matches, about needing a farewell worthy of me, and about the federation wanting to give me that opportunity,” Ronaldo said.
“I have learnt in life, often when I was hungry and had nothing to eat, that nobody gives anything to anyone.
“I can promise all my supporters, especially the Portuguese people, that we will have one or more farewell matches. There will be time for that.”
Ronaldo, who plays for Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, said that thoughts of Portugal were associated with competition rather than retirement.
“When I think about the national team, what really comes to mind is competition,” he added. “That was what I thought about on the day I received the news of my father’s death.
“I was with the national team and decided to stay until the end of the match the following day. I did for my country what I would not have done for any club.”
Ronaldo said his future involvement would depend on his physical condition, his form for Al Nassr and the suspension expected to be imposed by the Portuguese Football Federation for leaving the camp.
“Therefore, if I am physically fit, playing for my club and hopefully scoring goals, and after serving the suspension that will be imposed on me by the Portuguese Football Federation for leaving the camp, I will be available, as I have always been until now, to compete and win with our national team,” he said.
The comments represent Ronaldo’s clearest indication that he does not currently intend to retire from international football. He acknowledged that a farewell match, or more than one, would eventually take place, but said he remained focused on competing and winning with Portugal while he was still able to do so.