Portugal Coach Says He Tried to Keep Ronaldo Playing Until 2027

Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus says he tried to persuade Cristiano Ronaldo to continue playing for the national team until 2027. Ronaldo has instead decided to retire from international football after a 23-year career. The 41-year-old leaves with reported records of 146 goals and 234 appearances for Portugal. He said passing on the number seven shirt was a difficult decision. The report also links his departure to a September dispute over being left on the bench for a Nations League match, which it says led to a suspension and a fine.

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