Cristiano Ronaldo, now approaching his 42nd birthday, has been at the centre of intense speculation about his international future ever since the last World Cup. After the tournament, the Portuguese legend admitted that he had seriously considered hanging up his national‑team boots, but ultimately chose to extend his tenure with Portugal.
On Thursday, he will line up for his 234th appearance for the senior side in a Nations League clash against Wales at the historic Jose Alvalade Stadium – the very ground where his professional journey began with Sporting CP. Head coach Jorge Jesus has confirmed that the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star will start the match, underscoring the continued trust placed in him by the coaching staff. There has been a growing chorus of voices suggesting that the Lisbon fixture could serve as Ronaldo’s swan song on the international stage.
Yet the five‑time Ballon d'Or winner has been unequivocal: he will only step away when he feels he can no longer contribute meaningfully. "I will finish when I feel like I'm not doing anything here," he told reporters, emphasizing that his decision will be guided by personal performance rather than external pressure. Ronaldo’s contemplation of retirement was not a spur‑of‑the‑moment whim. In a candid interview he explained, "Yes, I did think about it.
Of course I’m always weighing my options, my future, the present as well. I’m a thinker, and that’s why I’m still here. It means I will continue." He went on to describe a recent conversation with the Portuguese Football Federation’s president and the national team coach, noting that he still believes he can help the squad achieve its objectives.
"I will stop when I feel I’m no longer adding value," he added, highlighting that his contribution extends beyond goals – he also wants to support the team off the pitch, serving as a mentor for the emerging generation of Portuguese talent. In the run‑up to the Wales game, the popular Portuguese newspaper A Bola conducted a poll asking readers to pick their ideal starting XI.
Unsurprisingly, Ronaldo did not make the fan‑selected lineup, a result that sparked a flurry of commentary about his place in the squad. Ronaldo responded with measured humility, saying, "I’ve been playing football for many years and I’ve been welcomed almost everywhere, with a few exceptions. I know the Portuguese fans love me, but I also understand that some media outlets love to criticize.
They would like me to quit the national team, but I’m used to that kind of scrutiny after more than two decades in the spotlight. My memories are with the people who truly support me." Beyond his national‑team duties, Ronaldo continues to excel at club level with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, where he has amassed an astonishing 979 career goals. While the figure approaches the mythical 1,000‑goal milestone, he insists he is not obsessively chasing it. Nevertheless, he admitted that reaching a thousand goals while wearing the Portuguese shirt would be a "beautiful story" and a fitting culmination of his career.
"I’ve already said I want to get there, and I will get there. An obsession? No. It’s about enjoying every day and every moment on the pitch," he explained.
Ronaldo also reflected on his influence on younger players, noting that many children look up to him as a role model. "I know why young kids love Cristiano – they see me as an example, and I will keep being that example even after I retire, maybe ten years from now.
I’m happy with myself. It doesn’t matter if I play tomorrow or rest the next game; the most important thing is that I feel good," he said.
Former Wales striker Craig Bellamy weighed in on the upcoming encounter, praising Ronaldo’s longevity and impact. "Who gets a thousand goals?
We’re not counting youth football or anything," Bellamy joked, before adding, "It’s just silly and I hope he gets it, but I hope he gets nothing against us. The impact he’s had on the game is awe‑inspiring. He’s had to adapt his style, but he’s at his most dangerous when he’s on the ball. You’ve never been able to sleep on the pitch with this guy.
He’s one of the greatest players of all generations, not just this one. His name will be etched in history for hundreds and hundreds of years." As the Nations League opener approaches, the narrative surrounding Ronaldo is one of defiance and determination. He remains focused on adding to his already impressive tally of 146 international goals, while also preparing to guide Portugal through a new era of talent. Whether he ultimately decides to retire after the Wales match or continues to add chapters to his storied career, Ronaldo’s commitment to his country and his personal milestones remains unwavering.
The world will be watching closely as he steps onto the pitch for what could be another historic appearance, still chasing that elusive thousand‑goal mark and inspiring the next generation of footballers worldwide.