Ronaldo Announces Retirement from International Football
Press coverage 2 newspapers covered this event: Al-Rai · Al-Qabas →
Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football following a dispute with coach Jorge Jesus.
Translated by Qiyas from الراي — Original source
Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo announced on Thursday that he is retiring from international football at the age of 41, following weeks of controversy that saw him leave the national team camp after a dispute with his coach, Jorge Jesus, over not being included in a UEFA Nations League match.
Ronaldo said in a video posted on his Instagram account, “My journey with the national team comes to an end today.”
After apologizing for leaving the “Seleção das Quinas” camp on September 30 ahead 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 last week by announcing that his name had been included in an initial list of around 50 players in preparation for the November 14 match against Denmark in Braga, northern Portugal, followed by the game against Wales three days later in Cardiff.
However, 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 is the day I return our number 7 shirt to everyone. (...) I am putting an end to a journey 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 son 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 went on to win the title.
