Ronaldo says his future with Portugal depends on the team's needs
At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to carry Portugal, while many teammates have already hung up their international boots; he has amassed 233 caps and 146 goals, figures that still place him among the best in the world today.
A record that motivates him
During Wednesday’s press conference, the five‑time Ballon d’Or winner said: « I don’t know when I will end my career, I would like to be able to answer, but I have no idea. » He reiterated his ambition to reach 1,000 goals, stating: « I have already admitted that I want to get there and that I will get there… I really want to break this record, yes. »
Ronaldo also thanked former manager Roberto Martínez for his “excellent work” before noting that the new coach Jorge Jesus has recalled him for the extended international window.
Statistics and fitness
In Saudi Arabia, the striker has scored three goals in seven matches, bringing his career total to 979 goals, including three for Al Nassr this season. He has exceeded 30 goals each year since his arrival in the kingdom, which suggests that the 1,000‑goal milestone will be reached soon.
“If the coach or the president no longer count on me, I can leave today. As soon as I feel I am contributing nothing, creating a bad atmosphere or they no longer want me here, I will pack my things and I’ll be gone,” he added, noting that his statistics show he is still at the level.
Portugal takes the upper hand over Wales in the Nations League
Nations League schedule
Portugal will play four matches in three weeks, opening against Wales on September 24, then Norway on September 27, Denmark on October 1 and Norway again on October 4. Ronaldo confirmed he is available to play, come off the bench or even not play at all, depending on Jorge Jesus’s needs.
He said: « The most important thing is that I know who I am. I know why the youngsters love me. I will keep doing that, even when I retire in ten years. »
CR7 also sees himself as a mentor: “I can support the team not only with goals but also off the pitch. It’s a new era, a young generation. The youngsters need a share of experience.”
Ronaldo aims for 1,000 goals and a Nations League win as final target
After the round‑of‑16 loss at the World Cup to Spain, where Mikel Merino scored the only goal, Ronaldo expressed his desire to mend that wound by targeting the Nations League title.
In conclusion, while most of his peers have already hung up their boots, Ronaldo persists, showing that his influence goes beyond mere goal tallies and that his future will depend on when Portugal stops relying on him.