Cristiano Ronaldo will retire from the Portugal national team after the World Cup, according to his sister Katia Aveiro. The 41-year-old is playing in his sixth World Cup for Portugal and is the nation's most capped player and record goalscorer with 231 appearances and 145 goals.
Ronaldo faces criticism at World Cup
Ronaldo has faced criticism at this World Cup over his role in the Portuguese side and described the reaction to his performance in the 1-1 draw with DR Congo as 'very harsh'. The former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward scored twice in Portugal's 5-0 win over Uzbekistan and now starts for Roberto Martinez's side in their round-of-32 match against Croatia on Thursday.
Sister's retirement claim
But speaking just hours before the game, Aveiro told the Portuguese media that it could be Ronaldo's last in a Portugal shirt. 'We have to enjoy these moments. It's the last dance for two players, both for Croatia and for Portugal. The most important thing is to enjoy these 20-odd years that we've lived, won, and come so far,' Aveiro said.
'I'm incredibly proud. I was in Qatar, I'm here. It's a tremendous pride. I'm confident and we'll smile at the end. Ronaldo is great and confident, less nervous than us. I felt a good energy and confidence. For us fans, it brings comfort. We can trust.'
Farewell after World Cup
When asked about the possibility of seeing Ronaldo with Portugal at Euro 2028, Aveiro replied: 'From the information I have, they can say goodbye. Enjoy it while it lasts. It's not today that they're saying goodbye, but it's soon. I believe this is their farewell. Enjoy it a lot. It will be difficult to find someone like him.'
'I'm talking about the national team. The information I have, from a reliable source, I believe this is his last dance. For intelligent people, those who like football have to like Ronaldo. Those who don't like Ronaldo don't like football. They're the ones who lose out. He's been tearing it up for over 20 years. Do they think we're not happy? Look where we are, the Aveiro family, and where we came from. We've achieved so much, considering where we came from… after the struggle we went through, what my brother went through, the achievements my mother had… do they think the criticism will interfere with our happiness? Never.'
