CORNERFLICK
Cristiano Ronaldo says he still has plenty of motivation to keep playing for Portugal, with the 1,000-goal milestone and another Nations League title driving him on.
Ronaldo keeps long-term plans open
The 41-year-old spoke before Portugal’s Nations League meeting with Wales about his future and said he cannot put a date on the end of his career. He added that he prefers to focus on the present, even if this season could be his last as a professional.
Ronaldo said he will make any final decision public when he reaches it. He is currently on 979 official goals in club and international football.
Portugal role still matters
The Al Nassr forward also pushed back at criticism over his place in the national team. He said some people would like him to stay away, but that he focuses on those who still want to see him play.
Ronaldo said he is ready for whatever head coach Jorge Jesus decides, whether that means starting, coming off the bench or not playing at all. He also said he would prefer his 1,000th career goal to come in a Portugal shirt, which he sees as a fitting finish to another major chapter.