Ronaldo shouldn’t remain in national team just because of stature – Luis Figo tells Portugal coach

Former Portugal footballer, Luis Figo has expressed his views on Cristiano Ronaldo’s potential retirement from international football.

Pressure on Ronaldo to quit international football has increased after Lionel Messi’s recent retirement.

Following Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the death of his father, Jorge, Messi chose to end his international career with Argentina on August 31.

While Lionel Messi has formally announced his retirement from international football, Cristiano Ronaldo has not indicated any intention to end his career with Portugal.

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During the current international break ahead of UEFA Nations League fixtures, the Portuguese captain declared his willingness to leave the national team should the coaching staff determine that he is no longer an appropriate selection for the country.

Ronaldo has previously stated his ambition to score 1,000 career goals across all competitions. Given that the 41-year-old remains 21 goals short of this target, he is expected to continue representing Portugal.

Portugal head coach, Jorge Jesus relegated Cristiano Ronaldo to the bench during the 2-1 victory over Norway on Sunday, where he remained an unused substitute.

Following the match, Figo offered his assessment, saying that the ultimate decision regarding Cristiano Ronaldo’s international retirement rests with the legendary footballer himself.

Figo further acknowledged that the coaching staff will exercise considerable influence in the matter.

The former Portuguese captain said the five-time Ballon d’Or winner should not be retained in the squad merely because of his prominence or as a gesture of recognition for his accomplishments in professional football.

When asked whether Cristiano Ronaldo should retire in the same manner as Lionel Messi, Figo told ESPN FC: “Of course, he should decide what he wants.

“I have big respect and consideration for him because of what he achieved all these years in football. He can make a personal decision, but in terms of the national team, it’s [also] the coach who has to decide.

“It’s not because he has a stature, or what he means to football, that he should have a place [in the national team]. It’s a big responsibility for the coach. But in terms of his decision, it is only him that can say what he wants. So it’s difficult for me to talk.”

Ronaldo will be hoping to return to the Portugal line-up when his team face Denmark in the UEFA Nations League on 

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