Cristiano Ronaldo announced that he will not make any impulsive decisions regarding his future with the Portuguese national football team following their 1-0 round of 16 elimination against Spain at the 2026 World Cup.
Speaking to journalists in Arlington, United States, the team captain emphasized that his international future is “not important right now,” while reflecting fondly on his 23 years representing the national team.
Ronaldo made it clear that he wants the focus to remain on the team’s collective efforts rather than his personal career choices.
“I don’t decide things when emotions are running high, nor do I want to take the attention away from what was done in the World Cup with a personal decision,” Ronaldo stated.
Read more about this topic: Roberto Martínez leaves Portugal after lackluster game vs. Spain (with video)
“The assessment of the World Cup is that we could have done better, but we were eliminated by a team that will be in the final or close to it. I think it was a well-fought match that could have gone either way. We were a bit unlucky to concede in the last five minutes, but as I said, I leave with a clear conscience. I gave my best, we gave our best, and when that’s the case, there’s nothing to complain about.”
Addressing his tears at the final whistle, the veteran forward explained they stemmed from the sadness of leaving a major tournament just as the squad was finding its rhythm. He also noted that his 2016 European Championship title remains the pinnacle of his career, calling it “just as important as winning a World Cup.”
The match also marked the end of Roberto Martínez’s tenure as Portugal’s head coach. Despite heavy criticism from former players like Ricardo Quaresma, Ronaldo offered strong praise for the departing Spanish manager, highlighting his success in guiding Portugal to a Nations League trophy.
“What I want to say to the boss is that I loved working with him; he is a great human being, a great coach, and what he did for Portugal is praiseworthy,” Ronaldo said. “He won a title for Portugal. Many people might not value it, but I value it a lot. Portugal hadn’t won anything, and in recent years, we have won three titles. That shows the appreciation we need to have.”
