Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his departure from the Portugal national team. The 41-year-old footballer addressed his fans on social media. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Sputnik Kazakhstan.
"For the Portuguese, the day has come when we return the number 7 shirt that belongs to all of us. I never considered it mine alone, but wearing it, protecting it and taking it to stadiums around the world for 23 years has been a great honour and responsibility for me. Today the moment has come to pass this shirt on to the future. It was not an easy decision, because there are decisions that are made not only with the head but also with the heart. I am finishing the journey that began in August 2003 and fundamentally changed my life," Ronaldo said.
The legendary footballer particularly noted that looking back, he sees not only matches, goals, records or trophies, but also emigrants who felt closer to Portugal for 90 minutes.
"I see millions of Portuguese whom I have never met but who have become part of my life. Because football is much more than just a game. Football is people," Ronaldo said.
Cristiano played 234 matches for the main Portugal national team and scored 146 goals. He is the absolute world record holder in the history of men's football for the number of matches and goals for the national team.
Although Ronaldo is ending his national team career, he will continue to participate in club competitions. He currently plays as a forward for the Saudi club Al-Nassr.