Image Credit: CNN.
On November 5th, 2026, Cristiano Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football. Though everyone knew that the end was near, the fallout with Manager Jorge Jesus triggered the retirement. In September-October, after missing out on the Nations League game, Ronaldo left the team and went back to Saudi Arabia, something which shocked the entire footballing fraternity.
There were some who criticised him for placing himself above the team, whereas the supporters contended that a legend of this stature deserves respect. Moreover, it is not a hidden fact that Cristiano has lost the confidence of his team, and the players of the national side no longer look at him with respect, which is sad. On one hand we see the love which the Argentines shower upon Messi, whereas Ronaldo, who has won them three international trophies, is subjected to constant humiliation and unnecessary criticism.
It is pertinent to note that Portugal hadn't won a single international tournament before Ronaldo's arrival in the international scene. Moreover, it is only after Ronaldo that Portugal not only constantly made it into the Euros and World Cups but also won their maiden European Championship in 2016, followed by a couple of Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.
Despite doing so much for his nation, the legend was ill-treated by the Portuguese manager and players. Hence, it was certain that Ronaldo would not return with the international team for the Nations League games in November, and the retirement post on Instagram just confirmed the same. It's sad that, unlike Messi, Ronaldo won't get a farewell game. But that doesn't deny the fact of how great he was on and off the field.
Farewell, Ronaldo. You will be missed.
