Ronaldo focusing on ‘present’ ahead of Wales test

Cristiano Ronaldo is concentrating on his current activities, declining to specify a date for his possible international retirement, as he addressed the media ahead of Portugal's Nations League fixture against Wales. The 41-year-old previously hinted that this season might be his last, leading to numerous inquiries from journalists. Ronaldo stated, "I'm no longer at an age where I think about the future. For me, the present is what matters most."

He revealed his intention to retire once the coaching staff deems it necessary and suggested that he could announce his departure before participating in his last match. Ronaldo also confirmed his goal of reaching 1,000 career goals, having already scored 979 in various competitions. He reiterated his commitment to achieving this target, though not as an obsession, and expressed a desire to accomplish it while representing Portugal. "That would be the cherry on the cake," he added.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner hailed the appointment of new coach Jorge Jesus as the "beginning of a new era," describing him as the ideal candidate to replace Roberto Martinez. Portugal, who clinched the Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025, will commence the upcoming edition by hosting Wales at their home ground in Lisbon.

After their victory, they will travel to Oslo to confront Norway. The team will then return to Scandinavia to face Denmark a day later. Coach Jorge Jesus confirmed that Ronaldo, who remains the national team captain, will be taking part in the match against the Welsh. "He's playing tomorrow and I hope he scores one or two goals right away, then I'll take him off," the coach said.