Ronaldo’s Sister Hints at International Retirement After 2026 World Cup
Katia Aveiro, sister of Cristiano Ronaldo, has indicated that the Portugal captain may retire from international football following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Her comments suggest that the tournament in North America could mark the end of his career with the national team.
Speaking to Portuguese media before Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Croatia in the round of 32, Aveiro stated that her brother’s international career is nearing its conclusion. She described this period as potentially his “last dance” with the national squad.
Aveiro was asked if Ronaldo would continue playing for Portugal until Euro 2028. She responded, “From the information that I have, you can start to say goodbye, because I believe this is it – so, enjoy it while you can.” She added, “I don’t think he’ll retire today, but it will be soon. I truly believe this is the farewell, so enjoy it a lot because… It will be difficult to find someone like him again.”
She clarified that her remarks specifically concern the Portuguese national team. “The information I have, from a reliable source, I believe it’s a last dance. So, let’s enjoy it,” Aveiro told Sport TV upon her arrival at the Toronto Stadium on Thursday.
Ronaldo’s World Cup performance and legacy
Ronaldo, who is participating in his sixth World Cup, has scored three goals in the current tournament. These include two goals in a 5-0 win against Uzbekistan and an equaliser against Croatia. Despite these contributions, his performances have drawn scrutiny from some who question his place in the starting lineup.
Portugal’s coach, Roberto Martinez, selected Ronaldo for the starting XI against Croatia. Ronaldo is the nation’s all-time leading goalscorer and most capped player.
When addressing critics of her brother, Aveiro asserted, “For very intelligent people, those who understand football, those who like football, have to like Cristiano Ronaldo. Those who don’t like Cristiano Ronaldo, don’t like football – and they miss out.” She highlighted his long-standing success, stating, “Ronaldo has been breaking records for 20-something years, do you think we’re not happy? We’ve lived through so much, we’ve achieved so much.”
Aveiro expressed pride in Ronaldo’s achievements, noting her presence at both the Qatar World Cup and the current tournament. “I’m incredibly proud. I was in Qatar, and I’m here. It’s a tremendous pride. I’m confident and we’ll smile at the end. Ronaldo is great and confident, less nervous than us,” she remarked.
Looking ahead for Portugal
The ultimate objective for Ronaldo and Portugal remains to secure a World Cup title, adding to their European Championship success in 2016. While Portugal is set to co-host the 2030 World Cup, the prospect of Ronaldo playing at that event at the age of 45 has not been officially dismissed, though Aveiro’s recent comments suggest otherwise.
In the match against Croatia, Ronaldo made his 26th appearance in World Cup finals, surpassing Germany’s Lothar Matthaus. Only Lionel Messi has more appearances, with 29.
Aveiro concluded her remarks with confidence in Ronaldo’s current form and the team’s prospects. “I felt good energy and confidence. For us fans, it brings comfort. We can trust,” she stated.
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Source: tntsports.co.uk
As News GB's Senior Football Correspondent, Lewis Hartnell reports on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side for readers across the country. He reported on south-coast football for a regional title. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Solent University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Lewis lives in Southampton, where he watches youth football and follows the transfer market. “The week's training ground decides the weekend's headlines.”
