Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo says he remains committed to helping his country while closing in on one of football’s biggest individual landmarks.
Cristiano Ronaldo has set his sights on achieving two major ambitions as Portugal enter a new chapter under head coach Jorge Jesus. The veteran forward wants to help his country win the UEFA Nations League while also reaching 1,000 career goals.
Speaking at the Portugal Football Summit near Lisbon on Wednesday, the 41-year-old captain made it clear that both objectives remain important to him as he continues his international career.
Ronaldo currently has 979 career goals, including 833 at club level and 146 for Portugal. He therefore needs another 21 goals to reach the landmark figure of 1,000.
Portugal Begin New Era Under Jorge Jesus
Portugal have appointed Jorge Jesus as their new head coach following Roberto Martinez’s departure after the team’s last-16 elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup against eventual champions Spain.
Ronaldo welcomed the beginning of a new era and expressed hope that Jesus can enjoy a successful spell with the national team.
The Portugal captain said his preferred outcome would be to achieve both the Nations League title and his personal scoring milestone rather than choosing between them.
International Future Still Open
Ronaldo revealed that he had reflected on his international future following Portugal’s World Cup exit. Discussions with the Portuguese Football Federation and Jesus, however, convinced him that he could still make a meaningful contribution.
The forward stressed that his priority remains helping Portugal produce victories through goals and performances on the pitch.
He also rejected the idea that reaching 1,000 goals had become an obsession. Ronaldo acknowledged that he wants to reach the milestone but said he intends to continue enjoying football rather than becoming consumed by the target.
Retirement Decision Remains Unclear
Ronaldo also avoided setting a specific retirement date. He indicated that he would step away when he felt he could no longer contribute effectively or when his presence was no longer wanted by the national team.
Portugal’s upcoming Nations League schedule includes matches against Wales and Denmark, along with two encounters against Norway during the extended international window.