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Cristiano Ronaldo announces retirement from the Portugal national team

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his retirement from the Portugal national team, where he was the all-time leading scorer.

5 November 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Cristiano Ronaldo announces retirement from the Portugal national team — Archive photoPhoto: Threeohsix · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Cristiano Ronaldo, the 41-year-old Portuguese footballer, announced his retirement from the national team through a video posted on social media. This decision marks the end of an international career that lasted over 20 years, during which Ronaldo became the all-time top scorer for the national team, with 146 goals in 234 appearances.

In the video, Ronaldo highlights his emotional connection to the country, stating, "Portugal will always be within me." He mentions that the time has come to hand over the number 7 jersey, a symbol of his journey and achievements with the Portuguese national team.

Ronaldo's retirement comes just before the announcement of the call-up for the upcoming Nations League matches. His decision follows a recent episode of tensions with the current coach, Jorge Jesus, who relegated him to the bench in a match, leading to his departure from the team's training camp.

Ronaldo also expressed that, despite leaving the national team, the memories and experiences he lived will always be a part of him. Throughout his career, he won significant titles with the team, including Euro 2016 and the Nations League in 2019, solidifying his status as a legend of world football.

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) acknowledged Ronaldo's importance in the history of the national team and emphasized that his departure deserves a proper tribute. Reactions to his retirement have been numerous, reflecting his influence both on and off the field.

Ronaldo is considered one of the most prominent figures in global football, and his decision to retire marks the end of an era in Portuguese football. With the official announcement of his retirement, he closes a significant chapter in the history of sports in Portugal.

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