Cristiano Ronaldo bids farewell to the World Cup with a bitter goodbye, after Portugal was eliminated 1-0 by Spain in the round of 16, but leaves doubts about his future with the national team. At 41 years old, the Portuguese captain does not completely close the door on the Seleção, fueling speculation and expectation among fans and critics.
On the pitch, alongside Ronaldo, were current Manchester United players Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot, on a night that marked another elimination for Portugal. Ronaldo managed to score three goals during the tournament, including his first goal in knockout stages against Croatia, but even that was not enough to prevent an early exit from the competition.
The defeat had immediate consequences: Roberto Martínez stepped down as head coach, forcing the Portuguese Football Federation to begin the search for a new leader for the national team. In the aftermath of the match, Ronaldo publicly admitted that this “was my last World Cup, yes,” but remained reserved about his future with the national team, adding: “For the rest, I will have time to think, to talk with my family; there is no need to make a hasty decision, life goes on.” The statements were made after the match against Spain, indicating that, despite saying goodbye to the World Cup, his connection to the national team may not yet be over.
The Italian press, particularly Gazzetta dello Sport, highlighted that, despite Ronaldo bidding farewell to the global stage, he does not say goodbye to the Seleção. The forward, currently with 976 career goals, will return to Saudi Arabia to represent Al-Nassr, with the aim of reaching the impressive milestone of 1,000 goals.
Ronaldo's selection continues to be a topic of debate and criticism, especially regarding his unquestionable presence in the starting eleven, regardless of his age. However, with Martínez's departure, the name of Jorge Jesus, Ronaldo's former coach at Al-Nassr, is gaining traction as the favorite to succeed him, which could influence the Portuguese star's continuation with the team.
When asked to comment on the rumors about Jorge Jesus, Ronaldo was emphatic: “It’s not the time to talk about Jorge Jesus. It’s not my decision; it will be the president who makes it.” The captain thus distances himself from controversies and focuses on the next chapter of his career, leaving Portugal in suspense regarding his future role in the national team.
O MUNDIAL 2026 VIVE-SE COM A LEGO
With Martínez's departure and the possible arrival of Jorge Jesus, the Portuguese Football Federation is entering a phase of change, while fans eagerly await a decision from Ronaldo. Uncertainty remains over whether the all-time top scorer in Portuguese football will continue to wear the national team's jersey, fueling the debate over renewal and leadership in the national squad.
AGORA PODE ACOMPANHAR O MUNDIAL DE FUTEBOL COM TODA INFORMAÇÃO – AQUI
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