Cristiano Ronaldo, the iconic Portuguese footballer, is set to rejoin his national team for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Croatia and Scotland. Despite a lackluster performance in Euro 2024, where Portugal was eliminated by France in the quarter-finals, Ronaldo has managed to retain his place in the squad. The 39-year-old forward, who currently plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, is preparing to earn his 213th cap for Portugal, where he has already netted 130 goals.
Ronaldo’s inclusion in the squad reflects his enduring status as Portugal’s captain and one of the most celebrated footballers in the world. Even though he didn’t score in Euro 2024, his remarkable career achievements, including five Ballon d’Or awards, continue to solidify his position in the team. Reports suggest that Ronaldo is determined to participate in the 2026 World Cup, which would explain his continued involvement with the national team.
As the UEFA Nations League campaign kicks off, Portugal’s head coach Roberto Martinez has a wealth of attacking options at his disposal, including Joao Felix, Pedro Neto, Diogo Jota, Rafael Leao, and Pedro Goncalves. While it remains uncertain who will be selected for the starting lineup, Ronaldo’s experience and leadership will likely play a crucial role in guiding the team.
Ronaldo’s return to international duty comes during a break from the Saudi Pro League, where he has been playing since leaving European football. His next appearance will be against Croatia on September 5, where he will aim to add to his impressive goal tally for Portugal. As he continues to defy expectations with his longevity and commitment to the game, Ronaldo’s journey in international football is far from over, with eyes set on future milestones and the possibility of playing in another World Cup.
The upcoming matches in the UEFA Nations League will be an opportunity for Ronaldo to prove his worth once again on the international stage and to show that, even at 39, he remains a formidable force in football.
