Cristiano Ronaldo Sets New Career Target

Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that he seriously considered retiring from international football after the 2026 World Cup before deciding to continue with Portugal.

The 41-year-old admitted that walking away from the national team was something he thought about after Portugal's World Cup campaign ended.

“Yes, I did,” Ronaldo said when asked if he had considered quitting international football.

“I'm always thinking about my decisions, my future, the present also. I'm a thinker; you have to think. This is why you see me here now, it means I will continue.”

Ronaldo explained that conversations with Portugal president Pedro Proença and new head coach Jorge Jesus played a role in his decision.

“I had a conversation with our president, with our coach. I still believe that I'm able to help the national team to reach what they want,” he said.

The forward insists he will not remain with Portugal simply because of his status.

“If they don't want me in the national team, I will be the first one to go,” Ronaldo said. “When I think I am not adding anything to the team... I will be the first to go. I will take my suitcase and leave.”

But for now, Ronaldo believes he still has plenty to offer.

“The Portuguese count on me. That's why I'm still here,” he added.

Ronaldo also revealed the two major targets driving him at this stage of his career: winning another Nations League title and reaching 1,000 career goals.

“I will get to 1,000 goals. I'll do it,” he said, while stressing that he does not want to become obsessed with the milestone.

He was also asked about the criticism he continues to receive from sections of the media, producing one of the more memorable moments of the press conference.

“Some TV channels like to criticise me, they've tried to kill me – with a shotgun – but I can still move away from it,” Ronaldo joked.

Ronaldo said he has become accustomed to criticism after more than two decades in professional football, while choosing instead to focus on supporters who continue to back him.

He also spoke about the younger generation and the importance of his example.

“I know why young kids love Cristiano, because they see me as an example, and I will continue to do that,” he said, joking that he would still be doing so “even when I am retired... in 10 years.”

For now, retirement can wait.

Ronaldo remains focused on Portugal, another Nations League trophy and the pursuit of the extraordinary 1,000-goal milestone.