Why has Cristiano Ronaldo retired from international football? | Football
Cristiano Ronaldo has officially retired from international football, concluding a distinguished 23-year career with the Portugal national team. The 41-year-old announced his decision on Thursday, following weeks of speculation about his future after a public dispute with head coach Jorge Jesus.
Ronaldo’s departure marks the end of an era for one of the sport’s most celebrated figures, who is also the most followed athlete on social media. His widespread fanbase has been closely watching to see if he would leave the game on a positive note.
The tensions that led to his retirement began on September 30, when Ronaldo abruptly left Portugal’s training camp ahead of a UEFA Nations League match against Denmark. Reports indicated that this decision stemmed from a disagreement with coach Jesus shortly after a press conference where Jesus revealed Ronaldo would not be included in the starting lineup, marking a second straight absence from the team.
After the press conference, Ronaldo took to Instagram to confirm his decision to leave the training camp, stating, “Following the national team manager’s press conference, and after a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have decided to leave the national team’s training camp.” This followed his recent benching during a Nations League victory over Norway, marking the first time Ronaldo did not play for Portugal since November 2024, despite not being injured or suspended.
Jesus acknowledged that Ronaldo could rejoin the national team if he wished. “If he wants to, he’ll return to the national team. We can talk before the next call-up, but Cris is the one who’s going to decide,” Jesus stated. He further noted the importance of Ronaldo’s presence, regardless of his playing time.
Days later, Ronaldo accused Jesus of breaking prior agreements, asserting that a failed arrangement to publicly address his omission from the lineup contributed to his departure from the training camp. In a detailed statement, Ronaldo recounted his understanding with Jesus regarding his fitness management and expressed disappointment over not being called into the game against Norway after being told he would play.
In his retirement announcement, Ronaldo did not specify his reasons but described the decision as challenging, stating, “It was not an easy decision because there are decisions that are not made only with the head. They are also made with the heart.” He reflected on his impact on fans, saying, “If I ever made you happy… then it was all worth it.”
During the recent FIFA World Cup, Ronaldo became the first player to play and score in six consecutive tournaments, contributing three goals to Portugal’s campaign before their round-of-16 exit. After the tournament, he hinted at the conclusion of his World Cup journey, expressing sadness but also a sense of fulfillment about his participation. “I gave it my all,” he said. “I’m leaving with a clear conscience.”
Ronaldo’s departure signifies not only the end of his international career but also a transformative period in Portuguese football.
