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Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has officially announced his retirement from international football, ending his long tenure with the national team. The 41-year-old superstar confirmed the decision in a video posted to his social media accounts on Thursday morning.
In the statement, Ronaldo addressed his fans and the Portuguese public, marking the end of an era for the country's most decorated player. He stated, "The time has come for me to hand my country's number seven shirt back," signaling his final departure from the national squad.
"Some decisions are not made with the mind," Ronaldo added in the video, reflecting on the personal nature of his choice to step away from international competition.
The announcement comes amid a reported fallout between Ronaldo and Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus during the most recent international break. Tensions reportedly rose after the Al Nassr forward was left as an unused substitute for a UEFA Nations League match.
Following that incident, Ronaldo left the national team camp, a move that has now culminated in his permanent exit from international duty. The decision concludes a significant chapter in Portuguese football, as the nation prepares to move forward without its long-time captain.
<small>Source: Daily Post Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>