-
Cristiano Ronaldo acknowledges he considered RETIRING from Portugal duty after World Cup ‘difficulties’.
Cristiano Ronaldo has said that he considered retiring from international football after being left on the bench by Portugal for the 2022 World Cup.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner began another major tournament as a key component of his country’s preparations, but by the time a quarter-final defeat to Morocco occurred, he had faced enough concerns about his commitment to the collective cause in Qatar that he found himself among the substitutes.
Ronaldo has made history with Portugal, gaining 196 caps and scoring 118 goals, but there was a time when the 38-year-old really considered ending that chapter in his incredible career.
Ronaldo told reporters heading into a Euro 2024 qualifier against Liechtenstein on Thursday: “I’m not going to lie. In our life, we have to put everything on the scale. We thought, we reflected, me and my family, but then we came to the conclusion that, despite the difficulties, we cannot throw in the towel. I was able to see situations at different angles. I learned a lot from that.
RELATED:
- Ronaldo claims he is a ‘better man’ after ending ‘bad’ Man United spell
- C Ronaldo Breaks Silence After Portugal’s Loss At The World Cup
- Portugal announce the appointment of Roberto Martinez as their new coach.
“I’m glad to be back. Roberto Martinez showed that he counted on me. I’ve always wanted to play. As you know, he talked to everyone and to me, too. And I was able to realise that I have a lot to give to the national team. I feel it, I want it, and my desire is to take Portugal to the highest level. I will always give my contribution when they need me.”
Portugal manager Martinez has revealed that Ronaldo will remain in contention to captain the side under his leadership, with the famous attacker eager to usher in a new era.
He added: “There are a lot of different players, possibly the system will change, but it’s not for me to talk about it. Changes are good in life. What we feel in the national team is very positive. It feels like something special and positive. The intensity is very good, it’s different. I’m sure the national team will be prepared for whatever comes. I’m sure Portugal will be a team with more attacking.”
Ronaldo decided to join Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr on the most lucrative contract in international football when his contract with Manchester United expired in November 2022, thereby extending his playing career at the club level.