Luis Figo, a former player for Portugal, has shared his thoughts on Cristiano Ronaldo’s possible retirement from international football.
Following Lionel Messi’s recent retirement, Ronaldo is under more pressure to give up playing international football.
Messi decided to conclude his international career with Argentina on August 31 after his father, Jorge, passed away after Argentina lost to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
Cristiano Ronaldo has not stated that he intends to finish his career with Portugal, but Lionel Messi has publicly announced his retirement from international football.
The Portuguese skipper stated that he is prepared to leave the national team if the coaching staff decides he is no longer a suitable choice for the nation during the current international break ahead of UEFA Nations League matches.
Ronaldo has already declared that he wants to achieve 1,000 goals in all competitions during his career. The 41-year-old is anticipated to keep playing for Portugal because he is still 21 goals short of this goal.
Cristiano Ronaldo was benched by Portugal’s head coach Jorge Jesus during Sunday’s 2-1 victory over Norway, and he was never deployed as a substitute.
After the game, Figo gave his opinion, stating that the renowned football player himself has the last say over whether or not to retire from international competition.
Figo added that the coaching staff will have a significant impact on the situation.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner shouldn’t be kept in the team just because of his notoriety or as a token of appreciation for his achievements in professional football, according to the former Portuguese captain.
Figo responded to an ESPN FC question about whether Cristiano Ronaldo should retire in the same way as Lionel Messi by saying, “Of course, he should decide what he wants.”
“Because of what he accomplished in football over the years, I have a great deal of respect and regard for him. He is free to make a personal choice, but the coach must also make a decision for the national team.
“He shouldn’t have a spot [in the national team] because of his stature or what he means to football.” The coach has a lot of duty. However, he is the only one who can express his desires. I find it hard to speak as a result.
When Portugal plays Denmark in the UEFA Nations League on Sunday, Ronaldo will be looking to rejoin the starting lineup.