Cristiano Ronaldo Retires From Portugal After National Team Fallout

Cristiano Ronaldo Retires From Portugal After National Team Fallout

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Cristiano Ronaldo has retired from international football, ending a 23-year career that established him as the most prolific goalscorer in the history of the men’s game, according to The Guardian. The 41-year-old confirmed his departure from the Portugal national team in an emotional video statement released on Thursday, November 5, 2026.

A Career Defined by Records and Trophies

Over the course of 234 appearances, the forward scored a world-record 146 goals. His international trophy cabinet includes the Euro 2016 title, along with two UEFA Nations League victories in 2019 and 2025. During his career, he also participated in a Confederations Cup and two Nations League finals.

YouTube

In his retirement announcement, Ronaldo reflected on the personal and professional weight of his decision to step away from the national squad. To the Portuguese people, the day has come for me to hand back the number seven shirt of our national team, he said. I never felt it belonged to me alone, but for 23 years I had the privilege and the responsibility of wearing it, defending it, and carrying it with me into stadiums all around the world. He emphasized that the decision was not made with the mind alone, but also with the heart, noting that the journey which began in his youth had changed his life forever.

The Final Disagreement with Jorge Jesus

During the September and October international break, Ronaldo left the team’s training camp after he was benched for a 2-1 win against Norway and informed he would not start the next match. Following this, the Portuguese FA handed Ronaldo a 30-day suspension and a €255 fine, though the ban was backdated to allow him availability for future fixtures.

Cristiano Ronaldo announces retirement from international football
Photo: Al Jazeera

Ronaldo’s final appearance for his country occurred on September 24 in a 1-0 Nations League victory over Wales. Despite the acrimonious conclusion to his time with the squad—which saw him walk out on the eve of a match against Denmark on October 1—Ronaldo insisted he had no regrets regarding his career. I leave with my head held high, he stated, adding that while the circumstances of his exit were not what he dreamed of, he felt the greatest victory was having deserved to represent his country.

Tribute from the Portuguese Football Federation

The Portuguese Football Federation responded to the news with a formal statement acknowledging the magnitude of Ronaldo’s impact on the sport. The governing body stated that he was an inspiring leader and an example of unconditional love for the national jersey.

Cristiano Ronaldo has raised Portugal’s profile and inspired generations of young people who dream of following in his footsteps; for many of us, he is the greatest player of all time!

Portuguese Football Federation, official statement

Earlier coverage: Cristiano Ronaldo Announces Retirement From Portugal National Team

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