Ronaldo Says World Cup Is Over, But Keeps Door Open for Portugal Future

Cristiano Ronaldo walked off the World Cup field for the last time on Tuesday. Portugal lost 1-0 to Spain in the round of 16, and at 41 years old, the striker admitted that much is certain.

“It’s true that it was my last World Cup, yes,” Ronaldo said after the match. “But for the rest, I’ll have time to think, to talk with my family. There’s no need to make a hasty decision. Life goes on.”

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner scored three goals in the tournament, including his first ever knockout-stage goal against Croatia. But Portugal couldn’t get past Spain, and manager Roberto Martinez is already out. The Portuguese federation is now searching for a replacement.

Ronaldo will head back to Saudi Arabia to rejoin Al-Nassr, where he’s chasing 1,000 career goals. He currently sits on 976. But the international question isn’t settled yet.

Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Ronaldo hasn’t closed the door on playing for Portugal again. The report framed it simply: “Ronaldo has said goodbye to the World Cup, but not to the national team.”

That makes sense for a few reasons. First, Ronaldo has faced plenty of criticism for his spot in the squad — and especially his unquestioned starting role — at his age. But the man has 130 international goals and is Portugal’s all-time leading scorer. He’s not exactly easy to bench.

Second, Jorge Jesus, Ronaldo’s former manager at Al-Nassr, is reportedly the frontrunner to take over as Portugal’s head coach. When asked about that rumor, Ronaldo was careful: “It’s not the time to talk about Jorge Jesus. It’s not my decision; the president will make it.”

Still, the connection is obvious. Jesus knows how to get the best out of Ronaldo. If he gets the job, that could give Ronaldo a reason to stick around for the next Euros or Nations League cycle.

Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot, both current Manchester United players, were on the pitch for Portugal’s elimination. They’ll go back to club duty knowing the national team is at a turning point. Ronaldo might not be done with it yet.