During a press conference ahead of Portugal's opening match against Wales in the UEFA Nations League 2026-2027, Cristiano Ronaldo declared that media outlets attempting to "kill" him could only succeed with a gun.

"I understand that some channels have tried to kill me for many years, but they haven't had a chance, only with a hunting gun, and even then I can still dodge the bullet. I am used to that", he stated.

Ronaldo at a press conference on 23/9, before Portugal's UEFA Nations League A4 opener against Wales in Lisbon, Portugal. Photo: screenshot

The 41-year-old forward revealed that he cannot be entirely honest about the criticisms he faces. However, he emphasized that he continues to receive affection from many Portuguese fans and does not allow a small group of detractors to influence his decision to play for the national team.

"If the coach or president does not need me, I can leave today", the Portugal captain continued. "When I feel I can no longer contribute here, not perform on the field, not score goals, create a bad atmosphere, or if they do not want me here, I will pack my bags and leave".

Ronaldo affirmed that his current decision to continue playing for Portugal stems from the fact that coach Jorge Jesus and the president of the Portuguese Football Federation still want him. This decision, he stressed, is solely for the benefit of the national team.

Ronaldo is entering a new phase with Portugal under Jorge Jesus. He previously worked with the 72-year-old coach for one year at Al Nassr and believes that many Portuguese national players having worked with Jesus will facilitate a smooth transition. "Coach Jorge Jesus is the perfect choice for the national team", the Al Nassr forward remarked.

He also expressed gratitude to Roberto Martinez, who recently concluded his tenure as Portugal's coach. According to Ronaldo, as a foreigner, Martinez faced much criticism, yet he still led the team to victory in the Nations League 2024-2025.

Winning the Nations League is one of two objectives Ronaldo has set for himself. The other is to reach one thousand career goals. He has not yet determined a retirement date from the national team, though he admitted considering ending his international career after the World Cup 2026. However, following discussions with the president and coach, he decided to continue because they expressed their ongoing need for him.

Cristiano Ronaldo vies for the ball with Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, and Rodri during Portugal's World Cup 2026 round of 16 match against Spain at Dallas, Texas, US, on 6/7. Photo: AP

The forward, born in 1985, stated he is focused on the present rather than planning for the next season. He does not rule out this being his final season with Portugal, but will only announce it when the time is right. Ronaldo also does not commit to playing a full 90 minutes in every match. He acknowledged he can play the full duration, but certainly not in every game.

Portugal will commence their Nations League campaign by hosting Wales on 24/9. This match holds special significance for Ronaldo, as it will take place at Alvalade, the stadium associated with the early days of his career. "It is special because this is where I started playing football", he shared. "Returning to where I began is great. After many years on the field, it still feels like the first time".

He also believes Portugal can play a more attacking style of football under Jesus. Ronaldo's prior work with the coach at Al Nassr gives him a clear understanding of Jesus's tactical ideas. The national team will aim for victory regardless of stylistic changes. He suggested Jesus will try to make Portugal play more offensively, but the final result remains paramount.

At 41 years old, Ronaldo maintains that his motivation to play for the national team has not waned. "Previous titles or achievements hold no meaning", he asserted. "I have proven each season that what I achieve is different, and I will do the same with the national team".

He also confirmed his readiness to accept any role requested by coach Jorge Jesus, from starting to coming on as a substitute or being on the bench. For Ronaldo, the fact that the coach and the national team still need him is reason enough to continue.

Hoang An (via A Bola)