“I Don’t Even Think About It”: Rodrigo Mora Rules Himself Out of Portugal’s No. 7 Shirt After Ronaldo’s Retirement

Portugal youngster Rodrigo Mora has made it clear that he is not interested in taking Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic No. 7 shirt following the legendary forward’s retirement from international football. The 19-year-old was asked whether he would consider inheriting the famous number after making another important contribution during Roma’s 3-0 victory over Sassuolo.

Mora scored Roma’s third goal in the 58th minute, continuing an impressive run of performances in Serie A. Despite his growing reputation and recent progress, the young midfielder insisted that he is not thinking about wearing Ronaldo’s former number, explaining that he is perfectly comfortable with his current No. 86 shirt.

His comments also reflected the respect he has for Ronaldo, whose contributions to Portugal have made him an influential figure for generations of players. Mora acknowledged the opportunity to share a dressing room with the veteran forward and expressed gratitude for everything he has done for the national team.

Rodrigo Mora Explains Why He Does Not Want Cristiano Ronaldo’s No. 7 Shirt

Speaking to DAZN after Roma’s victory over Sassuolo, Mora was asked about the possibility of taking Portugal’s No. 7 shirt following Ronaldo’s international retirement. Rather than expressing interest in the iconic number, the youngster made it clear that he was not considering the possibility.

Mora first spoke warmly about his experience with Ronaldo, describing sharing the dressing room with the forward as a pleasure. He also recognised the important role Ronaldo has played in Portuguese football and said the country would remain grateful for his achievements.

“I’m very happy. It’s a proud moment for me and my family. Regarding Cristiano, it was a pleasure to play and share the locker room with him.

He’s everyone’s idol and now he’s retired from the national team. Portugal is grateful for what he did for us and now we have to continue with what we have.”

When the conversation turned to the vacant No. 7 shirt, Mora gave a straightforward response. He explained that he was not thinking about taking the number and was happy to continue wearing 86.

“No, no… I don’t even think about it. It’s too much. 86 is good.”

The response underlines the teenager’s reluctance to step into a shirt so closely associated with one of Portugal’s greatest footballers. Rather than focusing on Ronaldo’s number, Mora appears comfortable concentrating on his own development and opportunities.

Rodrigo Mora Continues Impressive Scoring Form at Roma

Mora’s comments came after another productive performance for Roma. The youngster scored in the 58th minute of the 3-0 victory over Sassuolo at the Stadio Olimpico, finishing a move created by Donyell Malen.

Mario Hermoso had given Roma the lead in the 27th minute before Sebastian Walukiewicz scored an own goal. Mora’s finish completed the scoring and helped the Giallorossi secure an important three points.

The goal was particularly significant because it extended Mora’s scoring run to three consecutive Serie A matches. He has now scored four league goals, demonstrating his growing influence in the Italian competition.

His contributions have not been limited to domestic football. Mora has also provided assists for Champions League goals against Real Madrid and Manchester United, further highlighting his attacking potential.

Roma’s victory moved the club into second place in Serie A, just one point behind Lazio, according to the supplied match report. Mora’s continued contributions could therefore prove important as the team looks to maintain its position near the top of the standings.

Strong Club Form Earns Rodrigo Mora a Portugal Squad Call-Up

Mora’s recent performances have also strengthened his position in Portugal’s national-team plans. His form earned him a place in Jorge Jesus’s 28-man squad for the Nations League fixtures against Denmark and Wales.

Despite receiving the call-up, the 19-year-old is still waiting to make his senior international debut. He was part of Portugal’s Nations League-winning squad in 2025 but did not feature during the competition.

That means the upcoming international fixtures could provide another opportunity for Mora to earn his first senior appearance. His recent scoring form at club level gives him momentum, although a place in the squad does not guarantee playing time.

For a young player still establishing himself at senior international level, the opportunity to train and compete alongside experienced Portuguese stars could be an important step in his development.

Bernardo Silva Becomes Portugal’s New Captain After Cristiano Ronaldo’s Retirement

Ronaldo’s international retirement has also brought changes to Portugal’s leadership structure. After the forward confirmed his decision on Thursday, the national team needed a new captain to take over the armband following his long spell as the side’s leader.

Portugal manager Jorge Jesus announced Bernardo Silva as the new captain within a day of Ronaldo’s announcement. The experienced midfielder will lead the national team, while Bruno Fernandes, Rúben Dias, João Cancelo and Rúben Neves form the leadership group.

The selection reflects the seniority of the players within the squad. Silva, who is 32 and playing for Real Madrid according to the supplied report, has 115 international appearances. Fernandes follows with 97 caps, while Dias has 84, Cancelo has 77 and Neves has 73.

Ronaldo’s departure therefore marks more than the end of an individual international career. It also represents a transition in responsibility, with a new group of experienced players expected to guide Portugal into its next chapter.

Cristiano Ronaldo Leaves Portugal After a Historic International Career

Ronaldo’s international retirement closes a remarkable chapter in Portuguese football. He ended his national-team career with 234 appearances and 146 goals, numbers that underline the scale of his contribution over more than two decades.

His career with Portugal lasted 23 years, during which he became the team’s most recognisable figure and an inspiration for younger players. His influence extended beyond goals and appearances, as he also served as captain and helped shape the identity of the national side.

For emerging talents such as Mora, Ronaldo’s legacy creates both inspiration and expectations. However, Mora’s response to the No. 7 question suggests that he does not see himself as someone who needs to replace the veteran forward’s identity. Instead, he has chosen to remain focused on his own journey.

Portugal Prepare for Nations League Matches Against Denmark and Wales

Portugal’s attention now turns to the upcoming Nations League fixtures. The team has already qualified for the quarter-finals and leads Group A4 with 12 points from four matches.

The next challenge will come against Denmark in Braga on November 14, before Portugal travel to face Wales three days later. These matches will provide an opportunity for the team to continue its campaign while adjusting to life after Ronaldo’s international retirement.

They could also offer Mora another chance to make his senior debut. With his recent performances at Roma attracting attention, the teenager will be hoping to turn his squad selection into an opportunity on the pitch.

Portugal’s Next Generation Begins a New Chapter

Cristiano Ronaldo’s retirement leaves a significant gap in Portugal’s national team, but the responsibility of moving forward will be shared by established leaders and emerging talents. Bernardo Silva’s appointment as captain gives the team a new figure at the front, while players such as Bruno Fernandes and Rúben Dias will provide experience within the leadership group.

Mora, meanwhile, has made his position on the famous No. 7 shirt clear. He respects Ronaldo’s achievements but has no intention of taking the number simply because it has become available. His focus remains on his performances, his development and the possibility of earning his first senior cap.

For now, the young talent is happy with No. 86. Whether he eventually becomes a regular part of Portugal’s next generation remains to be seen, but his recent form at Roma has given him an opportunity to make his case on the international stage.