Cristiano Ronaldo Criptic Social Media Post Leaves Door Open For Portugal Return

After France eliminated Portugal during the European Championship quarter-finals on penalties, Cristiano Ronaldo, the all-time international goal leader, did not announce his retirement from international football, even at age 39. Instead, he posted a message for his country’s supporters on his Instagram account but did not address his future.

“We wanted more,” he said. “We deserved more. For us. For each and every one of you. On and off the field, I’m sure this legacy will be honored and continue to be built. Together.”

Portuguese manager Roberto Martinez avoided a question on his striker’s future with the country, saying it was “too soon” to comment on the superstar.

Ronaldo started all five games for Portugal after being used as a substitute during the 2022 World Cup. His only goals came from penalties as his usual flair and grace subsided for lackluster play and emotional outbursts. He missed a chance to put his country ahead against Slovenia during extra time in the round of 16 and burst into tears even with the game still tied 0-0. Many pundits believed Martinez should have dropped him because he lacked energy with his press and did not contribute much during the team’s buildup in attack.

With the Euros occurring every four years, Ronaldo would be 43 the next time the competition came around and 12 years removed since Portugal beat France in the 2016 final. Coming into the tournament, he spoke openly about this being his international career coming to a close, but his comments point to him having cold feet.

Ronaldo made his debut for the Portuguese in 2003, aged 17. He holds the record for most appearances at the international level with 212 and the record-holder for goals at the Euros with 14. However, he looks different from the player he once did since his move to Saudi Arabia two seasons ago. Moving out of the top five leagues meant Ronaldo did not have the same intensity and rigor during the club season, making it difficult to switch to the pressure cooker of international football.