Ronaldo set to retire from international football after 2026 World Cup? Shocking claim sparks frenzy
Cristiano Ronaldo's sister Katia Aveiro made a bombshell claim on his retirement, raising major speculations over the striker's future in international football before the Portugal-Croatia World Cup round of 32 clash.
Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to bring down the curtain on his illustrious international career with Portugal after the 2026 World Cup, according to his sister.
Ronaldo is currently 41 and became the oldest footballer to appear in the World Cup knockout stage and score a goal, helping Portugal equalise against Croatia on Friday in Toronto, Canada.
Speculation over the veteran striker’s international retirement amplified after his sister made a bombshell claim ahead of Portugal’s round of 32 clash with Croatia.
Ronaldo's sister makes bombshell claim
Speaking to Sport TV ahead of the BMO Field, Ronaldo's sister Katia Aveiro strongly believes that the 2026 World Cup could be the veteran Portuguese striker's last dance with the national team.
More from Football NewsWhile she confirmed that Ronaldo will not say goodbye after the knockout fixture against Croatia, the end is coming soon.
"Enjoy it while it lasts. It's ending soon. The info I have, from a reliable source… this is his last dance. I believe it’s not today that they’ll say goodbye, but it’s coming soon. I strongly believe this is the farewell.
"So enjoy it a lot because it will be difficult to find someone after 200 goals. I’m talking about the Portuguese national team," Ronaldo's sister said.
Ronaldo scores its first-ever World Cup knockout goal
Ronaldo is yet to decide on his future in international football, but he played a key role in Portugal's victory over Croatia.
After Ronaldo's initial goal was ruled out as offside after a VAR review, Portugal received a penalty just three minutes later. The veteran striker took the shot and managed to equalise for the side, taking the score to 1-1.
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The 41-year-old scored his first-ever World Cup knockout goal, taking his international goals tally to 146 in 232 appearances.
Ronaldo’s World Cup campaign marches on as Portugal secured a 2-1 lead over Croatia, advancing to the round of 16 stage.
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