Cristiano Ronaldo has not yet decided to retire from the Portugal national team, leaving his international future open as he plays at age 41. Luis Figo weighed in on the situation, stating that only the forward can make the final choice about ending his career with the Selecao das Quinas.
Luis Figo on Ronaldo’s National Team Future
Figo addressed media questions regarding his former international colleague’s timeline, emphasizing that personal desire must be weighed against managerial decisions. “Tentu saja, dia harus memutuskan apa yang dia inginkan. Saya sangat menghormati dan menghargainya karena apa yang telah dia capai selama bertahun-tahun di dunia sepak bola,” Figo stated, as quoted by Sportskeeda. He added that the player can make a personal choice, but the national team coach holds the ultimate responsibility for selections.
“Bukan karena dia memiliki status besar, atau apa artinya bagi sepak bola, lalu dia harus mendapat tempat [di tim nasional]. Ini adalah tanggung jawab besar bagi pelatih,” Figo explained. Figo noted that despite Ronaldo’s massive status in the sport, legendary standing does not automatically guarantee a spot on the squad without the coach’s assessment.
International Record and Career Milestones
Ronaldo’s prolonged career stands in contrast to other high-profile modern footballers. Lionel Messi, at age 39, has already retired from the Argentina national team, drawing frequent comparisons and questions regarding when Ronaldo will follow suit.
During his extensive career with Portugal, Ronaldo has accumulated 234 caps and scored 105 goals. His tenure includes leading the squad to major international trophies, capturing the European Championship in 2016 alongside UEFA Nations League titles in the 2018/2019 and 2024/2025 seasons.
Portugal Squad Context
At 41 years old, the forward continues to draw scrutiny regarding his physical longevity. Figo reiterated that the player himself must decide when to hang up his boots.
Common Questions Regarding the Retirement Rumors
Has Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from Portugal?
No, Ronaldo has not yet taken the decision to retire from the Portugal national team.
What is Luis Figo’s stance on Ronaldo’s playing status?
Figo stated that while Ronaldo alone can decide what he wants to do, the team’s coach must ultimately make selection decisions based on sporting merits rather than past status alone.
How many appearances and goals does Ronaldo have for Portugal?
Ronaldo has recorded 234 caps and scored 105 goals for the national team.