Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that he has no plans to retire from international football, insisting he will remain available to represent Portugal after serving his current suspension.
In a detailed statement, the Portugal captain addressed the events surrounding the country’s latest national team camp and explained his decision to leave the squad.
Ronaldo said he had been assured by the coach that he remained an important part of the national team’s plans and would feature in the opening and final matches of the camp.
He claimed that he was later asked whether he could play 30 minutes in the game against Norway and agreed, despite it not being part of the original plan. Ronaldo said he warmed up from half-time but was ultimately not introduced.
The forward also apologised to his teammates for leaving the camp, accepting full responsibility for his decision. He said the Portuguese Football Federation should punish him without mitigating circumstances because he was the team captain.
Ronaldo also rejected suggestions that he was preparing for farewell matches, stressing that representing Portugal has always been about competing and winning.
He recalled remaining with the national team following the death of his father until the next match had been played, saying that decision reflected what the country means to him.
“If I’m fit, after my suspension, I’ll be available, as always, to compete and win for Portugal,” Ronaldo stated.
The declaration makes clear that Ronaldo intends to continue his international career and remain involved with Portugal’s pursuit of future success.
