Ronaldo extends Portugal career in pursuit of 1,000 goals
Cristiano Ronaldo said he considered retiring from international football after the World Cup but decided to continue with Portugal. The 41-year-old wants to reach 1,000 career goals and help a reshaped national team before retiring. Ronaldo also spoke defiantly about criticism, while coach Jorge Jesus publicly defended him, according to three outlets.
Why it matters
The decision keeps Portugal's most prominent player in the squad while the team tries to build its next generation.
Sources
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Part of the September 24, 2026 brief.