Portugal: PFF rejects Ronaldo’s quiet retirement from international football, reveals next action

Portuguese Football Federation, PFF, has promised to give Cristiano Ronaldo a memorable farewell tribute, insisting that the legendary forward will not be allowed to end his international career without proper recognition.

Following the Al Nassr captain’s emotional video announcement on Thursday, the federation confirmed its intention to organise a special ceremony to celebrate Portugal’s most-capped player and all-time leading goalscorer.

In a statement reported by OJOGO, the PFF began by expressing gratitude to “the eternal captain, Cristiano Ronaldo”, before declaring that it “refuses to let this farewell take place without due tribute”.

The federation also expressed its “firm and immense desire to organise, plan, participate and actively collaborate” in an event that will allow supporters and the entire nation to “applaud and celebrate” the five-time Ballon d’Or winner once again.

Ronaldo’s remarkable contribution to Portuguese football is reflected in his record-breaking 234 international appearances and 146 goals, making him the most-capped player and highest goalscorer in men’s international football.

The 40-year-old also played a crucial role in Portugal’s historic Euro 2016 triumph, alongside their UEFA Nations League victories in 2019 and 2025.

His international journey began in August 2003, marking a remarkable 23-year association with the national team.

Although the PFF has promised a fitting farewell, details of the planned ceremony, including the date, venue and potential opponent, are yet to be announced.

Reaffirming its connection with the former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward, the federation stated: “This will always be your home.”

It concluded its message with an ambitious reference to Ronaldo’s continued pursuit of goals, saying: “Let’s go for goal 1,000” (translated from Portuguese).

In his farewell video, Ronaldo was seen reading from a piece of paper, accompanied by footage of his memorable goals, supporters in the stands and moments with his children.

Addressing the Portuguese people, he said: “To the Portuguese people, the day has come for me to hand back the No. 7 shirt of our national team. It was not an easy decision, because there are decisions that are not made only with the head. They are also made with the heart.”

Meanwhile, PFF president Pedro Proença paid tribute to the legendary forward in a message shared on his social media accounts, describing Ronaldo’s importance to the country beyond his achievements on the pitch.

“Cristiano Ronaldo will be, for Portugal, more than a player. Man, athlete, reference, hero, leader. Our captain,” Proença wrote.