Cristiano Ronaldo has declared he is not retiring from international football, despite stating he deserves to be punished for walking out on Portugal. The 41-year-old captain left his country's Nations League camp following his status as an unused substitute against Norway and the subsequent news that he would not start against Denmark.
The Al-Nassr forward, who holds world records for 146 goals in 234 Portugal appearances, said in a statement that he should be held accountable. Ronaldo stated, "The Portuguese Football Federation must assess the consequences of my actions and punish me for them. I believe the punishment should not be reduced." He added, "I have already apologised, but I know that actions have consequences."
Portugal manager Jorge Jesus indicated on Sunday that the door remains open for Ronaldo to play for the national team. Ronaldo affirmed his desire to continue playing international football, provided he is "physically fit, playing with my team, and hopefully scoring goals." He concluded, "After my suspension period ends, I will be available, as I always have been, to compete and win with our national team."