Ronaldo eyes 1,000-goal as Portugal begin new era

LISBON: Cristiano Ronaldo, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner, has expressed his focus on the present as Portugal embarks on a new era under their new coach Jorge Jesus. The 41-year-old football star announced earlier this summer that this season would likely be his last, sparking numerous inquiries from the media. Ronaldo clarified that he is no longer concerned with the future, stating, "For me, the present is what matters most."

He revealed his readiness to step down from the national team once the coaching staff decided, hinting at announcing his departure before playing his final match. Ronaldo also affirmed his ambition to achieve 1,000 career goals, noting that while the milestone is a goal, it is not an obsession. He expressed his desire to reach this feat while playing for Portugal, describing it as "the cherry on the cake."

The coach's appointment, he believes, marks the start of a promising chapter for the team. Portugal begins their new Nations League campaign by hosting Wales at home, with Ronaldo set to play. The team then travels to Scandinavia to face Norway and Denmark, concluding their tour with a return fixture against the Norwegians. Ronaldo confirmed he will still be the captain for the Wales match.