CRISTIANO RONALDO admits this was his final World Cup – but has NOT ruled out playing on for Portugal.
And with the next European Championship just two years away, his comments have sparked intrigue about whether the five-time Ballon d’Or winner could plough on until Euro 2028 – when he will be 43.
Cristiano Ronaldo says he will think before deciding on the next steps in his careerCredit: Refer to source
Ronaldo was in tears after Portugal were dumped out of the World Cup in the last 16 on Monday as Mikel Merino’s stoppage-time goal sent Spain through to the quarter-finals.
It means the former Real Madrid, Manchester United and Juventus star will round off his career without the biggest title of them all.
The same title his arch-rival Lionel Messi already has in his back pocket as he hunts down a second with Argentina this summer.
But CR7 was typically defiant when reflecting his 23-year international career, and looking ahead to what MAY be left to come.
He said: “I’m sad to exit the World Cup like this.
“But I gave everything, well, I gave my best. And I leave with a clear conscience.
“This is football, this is the life of a footballer. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. And you have to keep going.
“The truth is that it was my last World Cup, yes. But now I will have time to think, to be with my family and not to decide things with a hot head. And to continue with life.”
Ronaldo hinting he will think about carrying on was followed by a declaration of love for the Euros, which he won in 2016 and could have another pop at in two years’ time.
He continued: “How do I feel today? The same. With a clear conscience. I gave my best. I have won three titles for Portugal.
“Before Cristiano, Portugal hadn’t won any titles. So, I’m happy.
“The truth is that the biggest title I won with the national team was in 2016. Which, for me, has the same value as a World Cup, honestly.
“That’s why, I repeat, I leave with a clear conscience, I gave my best and that’s it. Tomorrow will be a new day and life goes on.”
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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