Cristiano Ronaldo Targets One Thousand Career Goals and Continues Portugal Career

Cristiano Ronaldo nearly stepped away from international football after the World Cup but chose to keep playing because he wants to guide Portugal to more trophies and score 1,000 career goals. The 41-year-old forward previously stated that the 2026 tournament will mark his final World Cup appearance. He is now part of coach Jorge Jesus' 25-man squad for the upcoming Nations League matches, starting with a game against Wales in Lisbon on Thursday night. Craig Bellamy manages the Wales side for this fixture. Speaking at a news conference in Lisbon, Ronaldo admitted he thought about walking away after talking with the team president and coach, but ultimately decided he can still support the squad both on and off the pitch. He needs 21 more goals to reach the 1,000-goal milestone. Ronaldo is already a two-time winner of the Nations League and wants to secure a third title with his country. The team selection also includes young players like Fabio Silva, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes, Joao Neves, and Francisco Conceicao. Ronaldo joked about playing for another decade and said supporting these young talents is another big reason he stays. Addressing past criticism from television channels during his time playing for clubs in England, Spain, and Italy, the former Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus star noted that he feels the most care and support from fans in Portugal. Portugal manager Jorge Jesus praised him at the same press conference, calling him a symbol of the nation and the national team. Ronaldo also previously played for Sporting.