Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has revealed that he attempted to convince former captain Cristiano Ronaldo to delay his international retirement and continue playing for his country into 2027.
The 41-year-old forward concluded his international career after scoring 146 goals across 234 caps, both world records, following his debut for the national team in 2003.
Ronaldo’s retirement follows a turbulent final chapter with the national team after he walked out of Portugal’s squad camp in September upon learning he would not start a UEFA Nations League match against Denmark. The incident resulted in a £215 fine and a 30-day suspension. Although Ronaldo had initially signaled an intention to keep playing, he ultimately chose to step down ahead of Portugal’s November fixtures.
“To the Portuguese people, the day has come for me to hand back the number seven shirt of our national team,” Ronaldo stated in his official announcement video. “I never felt it belonged to me alone, but for 23 years I had the privilege and responsibility of wearing it, defending it and carrying it with me into stadiums around the world. Today the time has come to pass it on to the future. It was not an easy decision, because some decisions are not made with the mind alone – they are also made with the heart.”
Following the announcement, Jesus confirmed that he had hoped to retain the veteran forward through the UEFA Euro 2028 qualification campaign to help guide the squad.
“Cristiano is a global icon, an example for Portugal and the national team,” Jesus said. “I had a huge photo of him put up in our auditorium so all the young players can look up to him every day. I asked him to continue with me, because I needed him by my side. But, I have to accept his decision. He will always have a place in the hearts of the Portuguese people.”
