Cristiano Ronaldo announced this Thursday, November 5, his decision to retire from the Portugal national team, ending one of the longest and most successful careers in the history of international football.
At the age of 41, the Portuguese star has announced that he will end his adventure with the national team after the international matches in November, handing over the number 7 shirt, which he turned into a symbol of his career.
"Portugal will always be inside me," is the message with which Ronaldo accompanied the farewell video, published on social networks.
The decision comes after a period of tension between the player and coach Jorge Jesus. In late September, Ronaldo left the national team squad after disagreements over his activation, and later accused the coach of violating the agreements between them.
Ronaldo began his career with the Portuguese national team in 2003, when he was just 18 years old. During his 23 years with Portugal, he recorded 234 appearances and 146 goals, setting world records for the number of appearances and goals in international men's football.
The highlight of his career with Portugal remains the triumph at the 2016 European Championship, when the Portuguese won the continental trophy for the first time. Ronaldo was also part of Portugal's successes in the Nations League.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has not announced his final retirement from professional football. His decision is linked to the national team.
After more than two decades, Portugal prepares for a new era without the footballer who held the captain's armband and the number 7 shirt for years.
