Superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has candidly discussed his ongoing impact on the Portuguese national team while reflecting on the past mistreatment he endured at Manchester United.

Ronaldo believes he is still important to Portugal

In an interview with A Bola, when asked if he would be willing to sit on the bench when playing for Portugal, Ronaldo replied: “In my mind, I will always be a starter. That’s what I think. Until the end of my career, I will always believe that I will be a starter.

I have always respected the decisions of the coaches, not only in the national team but also in the clubs I have played for. I have always respected them… even though they have treated me badly once or twice (laughs). But seriously, when it comes to professional ethics, I have always respected the decisions of the coaches.

When the work ethic is not respected, then there may be controversy, but that is a separate issue. Right now, what I feel and what the coach said also shows that I am still an asset to the national team and I will be the first to admit that. If that does not happen, if I am no longer an asset, I will be the first to leave.

But if I leave, I will leave with a clear conscience, like every other time, because I know who I am, what I can do, what I have done and what I will continue to do. I look at the present very positively because for me the most important thing is to face each moment, each cycle, and the current cycle is good, I feel happy.”

Ronaldo recalls old conflict with Ten Hag

Ronaldo has been criticised for his poor form at the 2022 World Cup and EURO 2024. At the Qatar World Cup, CR7 did not play well and was benched by coach Fernando Santos. At the recent EURO, Ronaldo started every match for Portugal under new coach Roberto Martinez but failed to score a goal.

Recently, Ronaldo continued to be called up to the Portuguese national team to participate in the matches of the Nations League 2024/25. At the age of 39, it is still unknown when CR7 will retire from Seleccao.

Sharing on Portugal’s NOW channel not long ago, Ronaldo said: “When I leave the national team, I will not tell anyone in advance and it will be a very spontaneous decision of mine. However, it will also be a very carefully considered decision. Right now, what I want is to be able to help the national team in the upcoming matches. Ahead of us are the matches in the Nations League and I really want to be on the field.”