The 41-year-old forward addressed ongoing scrutiny surrounding his international career as he prepares for the upcoming UEFA Nations League group stage matches against Wales, Norway, and Denmark.
Ronaldo Addresses Portugal National Team Future Amid Criticism
Entering the international break, the Al Nassr star maintains that he still holds value on the pitch despite his age. According to reporting from the BBC, Ronaldo has tallied three goals across six appearances in the Saudi Pro League this season. Critics frequently question his ongoing presence in the Portugal squad, but the veteran forward insists he remains useful to the setup.
“Timnas masih mengandalkanku. Aku yakin bisa membantu tim,” Ronaldo stated, as translated in Jurnal Indonesia regarding his belief that the national team still counts on him and that he can assist the squad. “Hal terpenting adalah kemampuan untuk mencetak gol dan membantu tim menang.”
Did you know? Cristiano Ronaldo has set his sights on major milestones, including pursuing a third UEFA Nations League title and pushing toward a career total of 1,000 professional goals, as noted by Jurnal Indonesia.
Conditions for Immediate Departure From Squad
Despite his personal ambitions, Ronaldo made it clear to reporters that his tenure with Portugal depends strictly on his sporting utility. According to the BBC, the forward stated that he would pack his bags without hesitation if he stopped providing a positive impact.
“Jika pelatih tidak mengandalkanku, aku bisa pergi hari ini juga. No problem,” Ronaldo said, emphasizing that if the coach stops relying on him, he can leave immediately. He added that if he fails to make an impact, contribute, score goals, or if he creates a negative atmosphere within the team, he will depart on the spot.
Upcoming UEFA Nations League Fixtures
Portugal heads into a demanding stretch of the UEFA Nations League schedule with Ronaldo included in the current squad. The team faces group stage fixtures against Wales, alongside home and away matches against Norway, plus a fixture against Denmark. Team leadership and coaching staff have not issued formal statements regarding any alterations to his role ahead of these matches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cristiano Ronaldo still playing for the Portugal national team?
Yes, Ronaldo remains an active member of the Portugal squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches, according to the BBC and Jurnal Indonesia.
What are Ronaldo’s conditions for leaving the national team?
According to reports from Jurnal Indonesia, Ronaldo stated he would leave immediately if the coach stops relying on him, if he fails to make an impact or score goals, or if he creates a negative atmosphere.
How many goals has Ronaldo scored this season for Al Nassr?
Ronaldo has scored three goals in six matches in the Saudi Pro League at the start of the season, as cited by the BBC.
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