Cristiano Ronaldo has broken his silence following Portugal’s heartbreaking elimination from Euro 2024, after a tense quarterfinal match against France ended in a 5-3 penalty shootout loss. The 39-year-old striker, who currently plays for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, took to social media to express his disappointment and gratitude.”We wanted more. We deserved more. For us. For each of you. For Portugal,” Ronaldo wrote on his official accounts. He added, “We are grateful for everything you have given us and for everything we have achieved so far. On and off the field, I am sure that this legacy will be honored and will continue to be built. Together.” Despite converting his penalty in the shootout, Ronaldo’s performance in the tournament has been subject to criticism. For the first time in his illustrious career, he failed to score a goal in a major international tournament, going goalless in all five of Portugal’s matches. This extended his streak to nine consecutive games without scoring in major tournaments.The elimination has intensified speculation about Ronaldo’s international future. While he has previously confirmed that Euro 2024 would be his last European Championship, there are now questions about whether he will continue playing for the national team. Ronaldo has hinted at the possibility of playing in the 2026 World Cup, when he would be 41 years old.Portugal’s coach, Roberto Martinez, has been criticized for his continued support of Ronaldo, despite the team’s struggles. When asked about the futures of Ronaldo and his long-time teammate Pepe (41), Martinez stated it was “too soon and raw” to discuss individual decisions following the defeat.As Portugal comes to terms with their exit from Euro 2024, the focus now shifts to the legacy of this generation of players and the future of the national team. Ronaldo’s message suggests a desire to remain involved, stating, “I am sure that this legacy will be honored and further developed on and off the pitch. Together.” However, with younger talents emerging, the ‘cult of Cristiano’ may be drawing to a close on the international stage.
Key points
- Cristiano Ronaldo expressed disappointment but gratitude following Portugal’s Euro 2024 elimination.
- Ronaldo failed to score in the tournament, his first goalless major international competition.
- Speculation about Ronaldo’s international future has intensified, though he hinted at possibly playing in the 2026 World Cup.
Contradictions👾While some sources suggest Ronaldo might retire from international football, others report he has no intention of leaving the national team and is looking forward to the 2026 World Cup.
