Cristiano Ronaldo has decided to continue playing for Portugal after seriously considering his international future following the 2026 World Cup. The 41-year-old confirmed his decision on Wednesday ahead of Portugal’s UEFA Nations League opener against Wales, explaining that he still believes he can contribute to the national team.
Ronaldo had left his international future open after Portugal were eliminated by Spain in the World Cup round of 16 in July. He confirmed that the tournament in North America was his final World Cup but said he would not make an immediate decision about whether to continue representing Portugal. His position has now become clearer with the start of a new era under Jorge Jesus.
Ronaldo Still Feels Useful to Portugal
One of the main reasons behind Ronaldo’s decision is his belief that he remains capable of helping the national team on the pitch. Speaking before the Wales match, Ronaldo said he would be the first to leave if he felt he was no longer contributing or was no longer wanted. For now, however, he believes Portugal still count on him and that his performances justify his place in the squad.
That approach also fits with Jesus’ stance since taking charge. The new Portugal manager has made it clear that Ronaldo does not receive special treatment because of his reputation and that selection will be based on performance. Jesus has nevertheless named Ronaldo in his first squad and is expected to start him against Wales, giving the veteran forward an immediate role in the new Portugal setup.
A New Target With Portugal
Ronaldo also has another reason to remain involved. Portugal are beginning another Nations League campaign as defending champions, and the forward has said he wants to help the country compete for another title. He identified two objectives at this stage of his career: reaching 1,000 career goals and trying to win the Nations League with Portugal again.
The pursuit of 1,000 goals is a personal milestone, but Ronaldo’s comments suggest his international ambitions have not disappeared after the World Cup. He also remains Portugal’s record goalscorer and most-capped men’s international player. His continued involvement therefore gives Jesus an experienced figure as the manager begins rebuilding the team following Roberto Martinez’s departure.
Ronaldo’s Retirement Is Still Getting Closer
Continuing with Portugal does not mean Ronaldo has abandoned his plans to retire from football. In August, he said the 2026-27 season would probably be his final year as a professional player. He has previously spoken about retiring within one or two years and has acknowledged that his career is approaching its final stage.
For now, though, Ronaldo has chosen to keep playing for Portugal. His decision means the veteran captain will lead the national team into the Nations League under Jesus, beginning with Thursday’s meeting with Wales in Lisbon. Portugal will then face Norway twice and Denmark during the opening international window. Ronaldo’s eventual retirement remains close, but his latest decision shows that he does not believe his Portugal story is finished yet.
