Cristiano Ronaldo Considered Retirement After World Cup, Now Eyes 1,000 Goals and Nations League Triumph

Cristiano Ronaldo admitted he contemplated retiring from international football following the World Cup, but ultimately decided to continue playing for Portugal.

The Portuguese legend, who will earn his 234th cap against Wales on Thursday, remains committed to the national team. New manager Jorge Jesus has confirmed Ronaldo will start in Lisbon.

While some speculated that the match at the Jose Alvalade Stadium, where Ronaldo began his career, could be his farewell, the forward insists he still has contributions to make.

When asked about considering retirement after the World Cup, Ronaldo stated, "Yes, I did. Of course, I always consider my decisions, my future, and the present. I'm a thinker. You have to think. That's why I'm here now. It means I will continue."

He explained his decision was based on discussions with the national team president and coach. "I still believe I can help the national team achieve its goals, and I will finish when I feel I am no longer contributing. I can support the national team not just with goals, but also off the pitch. This is a new, young generation. But for me, the core is to be on the pitch and score goals to help the team win."

Ronaldo: Portugal Counts on Me

Ronaldo, reuniting with his former Al-Nassr coach Jesus for Portugal, is confident he can still make a difference internationally. "I'm coming to the national team because I make a difference at my club. Whatever the coach needs, I'm available – whether it's to play, come on as a substitute, or not play. Nobody has more international caps than me, and I'm here because I want to help the national team. I know the coach is counting on me, and I'm here based on what I do at my club, not my resume."

He emphasized his commitment: "If the manager or the president doesn't count on me, I'll leave immediately. When I feel I'm no longer contributing anything or that there's a bad atmosphere, I'll be the first to leave. If you look at the numbers, you'll still see the difference I make. I will always be a fan of this federation and always be available to help. I'm only thinking about the present moment... I know many people want me to leave now, but my motivation comes from those who want to keep seeing me."

Ronaldo: Aiming for 1,000 Goals

With European Championship and Nations League titles already secured for Portugal, Ronaldo's focus now shifts to personal milestones and further team success. The 42-year-old is targeting 1,000 career goals and another trophy.

The Al-Nassr forward, currently with 979 goals, views reaching this milestone as "the culmination of something – a beautiful story. It wouldn't be the end, but it would be a beautiful story."

He added, "I’ve already admitted that I want to get there, and I will get there. An obsession? No. The rest is about enjoying it, enjoying every day. I know why young kids love Cristiano; they see me as an example, and I will continue to be that, even when I'm retired... in 10 years. I'm happy with myself. It doesn’t matter if I play tomorrow or rest the next game. For me, the most important thing is that I feel good."