CORNERFLICK
Cristiano Ronaldo has rejected an offer from the Portuguese Football Federation to stage a farewell match, according to A Bola. Portugal’s record scorer and most-capped player will step away without a formal goodbye after a 23-year international career.
Ronaldo ends his Portugal career on his own terms
Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football in an emotional Instagram video, saying the time had come to hand over the No 7 shirt. He said the decision came from the heart and brought an end to a journey that began in August 2003.
His final official appearance for Portugal came on 24 September 2026 in the Nations League win over Wales. After that, relations with the national set-up worsened.
Rift with Jesus and the federation deepens
Ronaldo left the September camp after Jesus did not bring him on as a substitute against Norway. He later accused the head coach of breaking his word twice and said he no longer felt useful.
The federation handed Ronaldo a 30-day suspension and a fine. In October, he still left open the possibility of one or more farewell games, but said competition mattered more than ceremony.
Talks to repair the relationship failed. A planned phone call between Ronaldo and Jesus did not happen, and Ronaldo has no wish to have any further contact with the Portugal head coach.