Portugal’s captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, affectionately refers to the national team as “the love of his life” and sees his continued presence in the squad at the age of 39 as “a gift.”
Ahead of his record-breaking sixth European Championship appearance, Ronaldo showcased his enduring prowess by netting twice in Tuesday’s 3-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland, further extending his international men’s record goal tally to 130.
“I know I don’t have many years of football left,” Ronaldo said. “It’s a gift to play year after year, after 35. I’m 39 and every year is about enjoying myself. To score for the national team is special. The national team is the love of my life, winning the Euros would be a dream.”
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star has represented Portugal since 2003 and lifted the European Championship in 2016.
“For me, playing for the national team is a passion, a love,” he said. “Any game is special, a European Championship is special, it will be my sixth, which is also a record.
“Playing in 2004, when I made my [European Championship] debut, or playing today, the feeling is always one of pride and passion. It doesn’t get any better than this.”
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez recently described Ronaldo as “unique.”
Despite missing out on silverware this season, Ronaldo scored a Saudi Pro League record 35 goals for Al Nassr in his first full campaign at the club.
“The most important thing is that I am well physically and psychologically,” Ronaldo said. “I am prepared, I always prepare in the best way, I am 100% professional. I will be ready as always to help our country [at the Euros] and respect the coach’s decisions.”
Ronaldo was notably absent from Portugal’s starting lineup in their last two matches at the 2022 World Cup, including their quarterfinal loss to Morocco, a decision that reportedly did not sit well with the player, as stated by then coach Fernando Santos.
Under new management led by Martinez, Portugal has emerged as one of the top contenders for victory in Euro 2024.
Asked if they can replicate the feat of 2016, Ronaldo said, “The thought has to be that they should be positive and take it step by step. Dreaming is free and this team has the talent to dream. Nothing can be achieved without work; we have to work and fight.
“We need to take advantage of this generation of talent to do something beautiful at the European Championship. But I repeat again: talent is not enough. We have to work. We want to start the European Championship in the best possible way.”
Portugal kicks off their Group F campaign against Czechia on June 18. They also play Turkey and debutant Georgia in the first stage.