Cristiano Ronaldo is not done yet. At 39 years old, the Portuguese icon continues to defy expectations—and now, he has set his sights on winning another UEFA Nations League title with Portugal.
Ronaldo, who led Portugal to Nations League glory in 2019, is preparing for what many believe could be his final international campaign. As he joins the national squad ahead of their upcoming matches, the question looms large: Can CR7 deliver one more title on the international stage?
🔁 A Legacy Already Etched in Gold
With five Ballon d’Or awards, a European Championship title in 2016, and the inaugural Nations League win under his belt, Ronaldo’s place in football history is already secure. But for the legendary forward, there’s always more to chase.
“I always want to win when I play for Portugal,” Ronaldo said in a recent press conference. “It’s not just about scoring—it’s about lifting trophies.”
The 2019 Nations League final saw Portugal defeat the Netherlands 1-0, and Ronaldo was pivotal throughout the tournament. Now, as the competition heats up again, fans are eager to see if the all-time leading international goal scorer can add another piece of silverware to his already-stacked cabinet.
🧠 Tactical Shift with Martinez at the Helm
Under new head coach Roberto Martinez, Portugal has adopted a more fluid and attacking style, one that still accommodates Ronaldo’s strengths while also integrating younger stars like Rafael Leão, João Félix, and Gonçalo Ramos.
Martinez has publicly backed Ronaldo’s involvement, noting his leadership, experience, and elite mentality as crucial for the national team’s success.
“Cristiano is an important player, not just on the pitch but in the dressing room,” said Martinez. “He remains a key part of our project.”
Ronaldo has also looked rejuvenated in recent outings for Portugal, scoring consistently and showing he can still impact games at the highest level.
🔥 Still Delivering on the Pitch
Despite moving to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo’s sharpness hasn’t faded. He has netted over 30 goals across all competitions this season and has maintained top physical condition.
For Portugal, Ronaldo recently added to his staggering international tally of 128 goals, further extending his record as the highest goal scorer in men’s international football.
He might not have the same explosive pace as in his 20s, but his positional awareness, finishing instinct, and set-piece threat make him as dangerous as ever.
🇵🇹 Portugal’s Golden Generation Ready to Shine
This iteration of the Portuguese squad is arguably among its most talented. With midfield maestros like Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha, defensive stalwarts such as Rúben Dias, and rising stars in attack, the team blends youth with experience.
The Nations League provides the perfect stage for Portugal to build momentum heading into Euro 2024, and Ronaldo’s presence ensures the team has a focal point both on and off the field.
🔮 Is This Ronaldo’s Last International Campaign?
It’s a question that fans and pundits continue to ask. Ronaldo has remained non-committal about retirement, preferring to focus on the present.
“I’ll continue as long as I feel I can help the team,” he said. “Age is just a number if you train and prepare like a champion.”
However, should Portugal lift the trophy again, it could be a fitting conclusion to his remarkable international journey.
⚽ What’s Next for Portugal?
Portugal begins their Nations League group stage with matches against Croatia, Poland, and Scotland, all formidable opponents. Ronaldo is expected to start, and the team will look to capitalize on his big-game mentality.
Fans across the world will be watching—not just to see Portugal win, but to witness another possible chapter in Ronaldo’s legendary story.