Cristiano Ronaldo Should Consider Retiring from International Football Like Lionel Messi

For the past four years, Cristiano Ronaldo has struggled to contribute significantly on the field for Portugal. Despite being a legendary figure, his effectiveness in major tournaments has sharply declined, and it seems his days as an automatic starter are nearing an end.

Ronaldo's Recent Comments on Retirement

Before Portugal’s Nations League match against Wales, Ronaldo was asked if he had thought about retiring after the 2026 World Cup. He admitted he has considered it but plans to continue as long as he feels useful to the team. He said, "I believe I can help the national team, not just by scoring goals but also off the pitch." Yet, his actual performance tells a different story.

Recent Tournament Performances

• 2022 World Cup: 1 goal in 5 matches
• Euro 2024: No goals in 5 matches
• 2026 World Cup: 3 goals, but two came against a weak Uzbekistan team, and the other was a penalty in a controversial win over Croatia

In crucial matches against Morocco, France, and Spain, Ronaldo was largely ineffective. The team still revolves around him, with teammates expected to feed him chances and compensate for his decreased mobility.

The Decline of a Legend

Once the deadliest striker in football, Ronaldo’s peak arguably ended in 2018. Watching a player of his caliber diminish is tough, especially since he is now 41. Fortunately, the new manager, Jorge Jesus, who knows Ronaldo well from their time at Al-Nassr, seems ready to make tough decisions without catering to Ronaldo’s ego.

New Management and Changes

Jesus included Ronaldo in his first squad but clarified that playing time is not guaranteed. He emphasized that it is the coach’s decision, which is a shift from previous management approaches. Ronaldo accepted this condition publicly, though with some typical pride, stating he will leave when he feels he no longer contributes.

Performance Under Jesus

In Portugal's 1-0 win over Wales, Ronaldo struggled. Despite seven shots, only two were on target, and he missed a clear chance by volleying wide. A goal he scored was disallowed for offside. Jesus substituted him in the 68th minute, citing Ronaldo’s inability to maintain the required intensity.

Bench Role Against Norway

Surprisingly, Jesus left Ronaldo out of the lineup entirely against Norway, marking his first competitive international absence in over 18 years. Portugal won 2-1 with Goncalo Ramos scoring twice, showing the team can succeed without Ronaldo on the pitch. Ronaldo stayed on the sidelines and left immediately after the match without greeting fans, an unusual move that drew attention.

Ramos Brings Vital Energy

Goncalo Ramos, AC Milan’s record signing, offers qualities Ronaldo no longer provides: speed, pressing ability, and technical skill. Ramos’s style suits Jesus’s high-intensity tactics better than Ronaldo’s current poacher role, where he waits for service rather than actively creating chances.

Ronaldo's Future Role

Jesus confirmed Ronaldo remains part of the squad but will be used selectively. He mentioned the upcoming matches against Denmark and Norway, where Ronaldo might see playing time. The coach highlighted the need for players with different characteristics depending on the situation.

Following Messi’s Example

Lionel Messi recently retired from international football on his own terms, after a spectacular last World Cup campaign. Messi acknowledged that younger talents deserved opportunities and stepped down gracefully. Ronaldo, without a World Cup winner’s medal but with unmatched scoring records, could take a similar path.

He has nothing left to prove statistically or in terms of leadership, having helped Portugal win Euro 2016 and two Nations League titles. Letting the young players thrive without competing for minutes might be best for all involved.

Commercial Impact vs. Sporting Reality

Ronaldo’s presence is economically vital to the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF). His global fame attracts sponsorships and broadcasting deals, and his departure could cause a significant revenue drop estimated at 45%. This financial factor complicates the decision but doesn’t obligate Ronaldo to continue playing.

At 41, Ronaldo can still perform well for his club Al-Nassr without the pressure and criticism that come with the national team. Staying on the bench internationally wouldn’t suit his legacy, and he owes nothing financially after nearly 23 years boosting Portuguese football.

A New Chapter Awaits

Ronaldo has been criticized for holding on too long, but once he steps away, he will be celebrated as one of football’s all-time greats. The relief of retirement will likely outweigh any regrets, allowing him to enjoy his legacy without the burden of unmet expectations.