Portugal coach Roberto Martínez expressed uncertainty about Cristiano Ronaldo’s future with the national team following their heartbreaking Euro 2024 exit against France in Hamburg on Friday.
In a dramatic quarterfinal, Portugal fell 5-3 to France on penalties after a tense goalless draw. Ronaldo, who missed a crucial chance in extra time but converted in the shootout, faced questions about his potential farewell from international football.
“It’s too early to discuss that. The emotions are still raw after the match, and there haven’t been any decisions made individually,” Martínez stated during a press conference.
The defeat marked Ronaldo’s 212th cap for Portugal, with his record-breaking 130 goals making him the leading scorer in international football history. Despite his prolific career, the 39-year-old struggled to shine at Euro 2024, failing to score from open play and enduring his first major tournament without a goal.
Reflecting on his Euro journey, Ronaldo had previously indicated that this would likely be his final appearance in the European Championship, stating, “Without a doubt, this is my last Euro.”
Following Portugal’s emotional elimination, defender Pepê was seen in tears, embraced by Ronaldo. “I won’t disclose what Cristiano said, but we all feel it deeply. The frustration of not winning, of being eliminated from such a significant competition, weighs heavily,” Pepê shared with Canal 11.
As for his own future, Ronaldo remained reflective, emphasizing, “I’ll have the chance to speak about it later. Right now, I prefer not to speculate because tomorrow it might overshadow the team’s efforts.”
Ronaldo, who has now gone nine matches without scoring for Portugal, missed a critical opportunity during extra time against France, symbolizing a potential bittersweet conclusion to his illustrious international career.
