Ronaldo's sister suggests his international career is over

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FT Desk

Cristiano Ronaldo's international career may be over, according to his sister.

CR7 is Portugal's all-time leading scorer and the most prolific international footballer in history. As of October 2026, he has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances, holding the world records for both men's international goals and appearances.

His major achievements with Portugal were winning Euro 2016 and the 2019 UEFA Nations League. He has also represented his country at multiple World Cups and European Championships, remaining a key goalscorer into his 40s.

However, time waits for no man, and it is catching up with 41-year-old Ronaldo, who looked like a shadow of his former self at the 2026 World Cup.

He attracted attention during the recent international break when he left the Portugal squad and returned to Saudi Arabia after being an unused substitute in the Nations League fixture against Norway.

The move raised questions about his international future amid reported tensions with head coach Jorge Jesus.

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A post shared by Cristiano Ronaldo (@cristiano)

Despite Jesus previously suggesting Ronaldo would be welcome back, the forward posted a lengthy message on Instagram alleging that the coach had broken his promise to give him 30 minutes against Norway.

Ronaldo admitted his early departure could lead to disciplinary consequences but insisted he had no plans to retire from international football.

Despite that, his sister Elma Aveiro has raised doubts about his future with Portugal.

"It’s more likely a no than a yes," Aveiro at a book launch when asked if her brother would return.

"I think both [Ronaldo and head coach Jorge Jesus] are hurt. It was a situation they experienced, not me, I’m speaking for my brother.

"I think it’s a situation that’s stalled, we’ll see what happens. I don’t know, it’s very complicated.

"When we’re betrayed, it’s very difficult to go back to normal."

She believes her brother is being disrespected after all he has given to Portugal over the last two decades.

"My feeling is one of sadness because the Portuguese people unfortunately forget what has already been done and think that things should be done differently now," she continued.

"I’m speechless, it’s very difficult to see my brother go through this. He is one of the people who least deserve this."

Ronaldo is expected to make hismelf available for the Portugal national team for Nations League games against Denmark and Wales in November, but it is up to Jesus whether he's selected.