Why Ronaldo's exit could plunge Portugal into turmoil

Cristiano Ronaldo, the 41‑year‑old Portuguese forward, has walked out on the national team this week, a move that almost certainly signals the end of his international career after a record‑breaking tenure. He leaves behind 979 goals, five Ballon d’Or awards and five Champions League crowns.

Record‑breaking career

Ronaldo will rightly be remembered as one of the very best footballers of all time, having amassed eight league titles and five Champions League crowns across his career. His tally of 979 career goals dwarfs most peers, and he has collected five Ballon d’Ors. The Portuguese star’s long‑term rival Lionel Messi remains the only player who can claim a comparable legacy.

After a glittering first spell at Manchester United, the forward returned to Old Trafford in 2021 and scored 24 goals in his debut season. A year later he was charged by the FA for smashing a fan’s phone after a defeat at Everton, and a public falling‑out with manager Erik ten Hag culminated in a bombshell interview with Piers Morgan. The dispute led to his contract being terminated.

Turbulent club chapter

Ronaldo then signed a record‑breaking deal with Saudi Pro League side Al‑Nassr, becoming one of the first high‑profile players to move to the Gulf. He helped the club lift the Arab Club Champions Cup and claim the Pro League title last season. His goal record for Al‑Nassr stands at 132 goals in 155 games.

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Earlier this year he went on strike to protest the club’s lack of signings in the January transfer window, missing two matches before ending the walkout after a warning from Saudi bosses. In a recent league game against Al‑Ettifaq he was substituted at half‑time with the side 2‑0 down; Al‑Nassr rallied to win without him.

International fallout

Ronaldo is arguably the best Portuguese player of all time, having scored 164 goals in 268 caps. At the 2022 World Cup he started every game, netting three times – two of those against Uzbekistan – before Portugal were eliminated at the Round of 16.

Under new manager Jorge Jesus, Ronaldo captained Portugal to a 1‑0 win over Wales but was an unused substitute in the following match against Norway. Angered, the 41‑year‑old stormed down the tunnel and ignored travelling fans. Jesus said talks would be held, yet Ronaldo left the camp and vowed not to play for his nation again during the international break.

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The veteran’s decision leaves Portugal without its most experienced forward as they prepare for upcoming fixtures, and his vow suggests an abrupt end to a remarkable international chapter.