Cristiano Ronaldo has shut down any talks of retirement as Portugal prepares for the World Cup play-off with North Macedonia.
‘Who will decide my future will be me,’ said the 37-year-old as he attempts to emulate a select band of footballers who have played in five World Cup tournaments.
‘If I feel like playing more, I will. I’m the boss, end of story.’ He said.
With 185 caps and a world-record 115 goals, Ronaldo embodies the Portugal team.
After North Macedonia defeated Italy with a 1-0 win in their play-off semi-final last week, the country’s president Stevo Pendarovski tweeted: ‘Get ready Cristiano, you are next.’
Ronaldo responded: ‘Macedonia surprised everyone but they will not surprise us. Portugal will be better and go to the World Cup.’
The Manchester United star called on fans to display their passion as they did before the 3-1 victory over Turkey.
‘I would like to sing our national anthem without music,’ Ronaldo said. ‘If they are like they were on Thursday I’m sure we will win.’
Asked if this was North Macedonia’s ‘game of their lives’, Portugal boss Fernando Santos replied: ‘It’s also the game of our lives. We need to match their determination, aggression, spirit, and desire.’
