Ronaldo on His Status in the National Team: “In my mind, I am always a starter”

Al-Nassr forward Cristiano Ronaldo has spoken about his status in the Portugal national team, emphasizing that he is ready to end his international career if he stops being useful to the team.

“In my mind, I am always a starter. I will always respect the decisions of the coaches, both in the national team and at the clubs I have played for. When it comes to professional ethics, I will always respect the coaches' decisions.

When there are deviations from professional ethics, disagreements can arise, but that is a separate matter. At the moment, and as the coach's words also highlight, I continue to be a valuable asset to the team. If that changes, I will be the first to acknowledge it and leave. But I will leave with a clear conscience, as always, because I know who I am, what I can do, what I do, and what I will continue to do,” Ronaldo told A Bola.

Recently, the coaching staff of the Portugal national team included Cristiano Ronaldo in the squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches. Roberto Martínez's side will play against Croatia at home on September 5th and then host Scotland on September 8th.

Ronaldo has played 212 games for Portugal, scoring 130 goals and providing 45 assists. At the 2024 European Championship, the 39-year-old forward played five matches, recording one assist.