Ronaldo Announces International Retirement
Press coverage 2 newspapers covered this event: Al-Jarida · Al-Nahar →
Cristiano Ronaldo announces his retirement from international football following a dispute with coach Jesus.
Translated by Qiyas from الجريدة — Original source
Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo announced today his retirement from international football at the age of 41, following weeks of turmoil that saw him leave the national team camp after a dispute with coach Jorge Jesus over his exclusion from one of the UEFA Nations League matches. In a video posted on his Instagram account, Ronaldo said, “Today my journey with the national team comes to an end.”
After apologizing for leaving the “Seleção” camp on September 30, the eve of the match against Denmark in Copenhagen, “CR7” faced a symbolic punishment consisting of a 30-day suspension and a fine of 255 euros.
The Portuguese Football Federation had paved the way for his return by announcing last week that his name had been included in an initial list of around 50 players, in preparation for the match against Denmark on November 14 in Braga, northern Portugal, and the game against Wales three days later in Cardiff.
Despite expressing regret for his behavior toward fans and teammates, Ronaldo sharply criticized coach Jesus, accusing him of betraying his trust.
The Portuguese star said, “Today I have come to return the number 7 shirt of our national team to everyone. I am putting an end to a career that began in August 2003 and changed my life forever.”
During his last major tournament, the 2026 World Cup held this summer in North America, the native of Madeira Island became the first player in history to score in six different World Cup editions. However, the tournament ended in disappointment as Portugal were eliminated in the round of 16 by Spain (1-0), who later went on to win the title.
