DOHA, Qatar (Reuters), Dec 12 – Cristiano Ronaldo said in a cryptic social media post that his dreams of winning the World Cup with Portugal are over, but he will not retire from international duty. did not announce.
Ronaldo, 37, walked off the field in tears after Portugal’s 0-1 loss to Morocco in Saturday’s quarterfinals.
In his first comments after his departure, Ronaldo did not say clearly whether he wanted to continue playing for Portugal after 19 years with the national team, saying: “It’s time to take stock of the situation. ‘ said.
Ronaldo wrote on Instagram, “There is no point in rushing. Our commitment to our mission has never wavered. “I have always been the other [as a Portuguese] fighting for everyone’s goals. I will never turn my back on my teammates or my country.”
Ronaldo, who has scored 118 goals and is the all-time leading scorer in international men’s football, said his biggest dream is to take Portugal to the “best level in the world”.
“In 16 years and five World Cup appearances, I have always played alongside great players and have been supported by millions of Portuguese people.”I put my all on the pitch. I never feared a fight and never gave up on that dream. “Unfortunately, that dream ended yesterday.”
“I want everyone to be able to draw their own conclusions,” said Ronaldo.
“For now. Nothing more to say. Thank you, Portugal. Thank you, Qatar. It was beautiful while the dream lasted.”
The next big competition is his 2024 European Championship. The next World Cup will be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico in 2026 when Ronaldo turns 41.
After leaving Manchester United during the World Cup, Ronaldo lost the club after making outbursts in pre-competition interviews in which he criticized the club’s manager, board and teammates.
His only goal at the World Cup was a penalty against Ghana in Portugal’s first group match. He was the first male player to score a goal in five World Cups.
Ronaldo made Portugal’s starting line-up in the round of 16 (he beat Switzerland 6-1), and the quarter-finals were played on the bench. Portugal coach Fernando Santos has denied reports that Ronaldo threatened to leave the World Cup ahead of the match against Morocco after being told he would not start against Switzerland.
