Cristiano Ronaldo announced Thursday that he will retire from international football after Portugal’s November matches. The 41-year-old said on Instagram that he will “hand back the number 7 shirt” after the international break.
His final games
- Nov. 14: Portugal vs. Denmark (UEFA Nations League, at home)
- Nov. 17: Wales vs. Portugal (away)
His international career
- Debuted against Kazakhstan in August 2003
- Holds the men’s international records for both goals (146) and appearances (234)
- Captained Portugal to the 2016 European Championship, their first major trophy
- Helped Portugal win the Nations League in 2019 and 2025
- Became the first player to score at six men’s World Cups, at the 2026 tournament
- Portugal lost to eventual champions Spain in the round of 16
The dispute with the coach
Ronaldo’s announcement follows a public clash with coach Jorge Jesus in September. He left camp after staying on the bench against Norway, then apologised to fans and teammates. He accused Jesus of breaking promises about his playing time and said he would remain available once any punishment from the Portuguese Football Federation was served.
He also revealed that he had written a retirement letter after the 2026 World Cup. Federation president Pedro Proenca persuaded him to continue.
What’s next
The decision covers international football only. Ronaldo will keep playing for Saudi club Al Nassr.
