Ruben Amorim Says Cristiano Ronaldo Deserved Better Farewell

Ruben Amorim has admitted that Cristiano Ronaldo‘s Portugal career did not receive the ending it deserved following the forward’s announcement of his retirement from International Football. The 41-year-old brought an end to an extraordinary chapter with the national team on Thursday, prompting tributes from former teammates and fellow Portuguese football figures.

Speaking to Sky Sport ahead of AC Milan’s Europa League meeting with Ferencvaros, Amorim was asked about Ronaldo’s decision and the circumstances surrounding his departure from the national team. The Milan coach acknowledged that the farewell was not ideal but stressed the lasting contribution Ronaldo made to Portugal and its global football reputation.

“It was not the best way to end his national team career, but what he did for our country is clear for all to see,” Amorim said.

Amorim also highlighted Ronaldo’s influence beyond his performances on the pitch, pointing to the worldwide recognition he brought to Portugal throughout his international career.

“Everyone knows him around the world. Football is a window, many know Portugal because of CR7. He played with so many important players. He will give something to our country off the pitch too.”

Amorim Reflects on Ronaldo’s Contribution to Portugal

Amorim and Ronaldo shared the pitch eight times for Portugal between 2010 and 2014. Their time together in the national team allowed the Milan coach to experience Ronaldo’s influence as a teammate, while his latest comments focused on the wider significance of the forward’s career.

Rather than concentrating on Ronaldo’s individual statistics, Amorim emphasised the visibility and recognition the superstar gave his country. He believes Ronaldo helped introduce Portugal to football supporters across the world and will continue to contribute to the nation even after retiring from international football.

Ronaldo leaves behind a remarkable record for Portugal. He retired as the most-capped men’s international player and the leading goalscorer in men’s international football, having made 234 appearances and scored 146 goals for his country.

His international achievements also include winning Euro 2016 and two UEFA Nations League titles. Across more than two decades, Ronaldo became one of the most recognisable figures in Portuguese sporting history.

Ronaldo Announces International Retirement in Instagram Video

Ronaldo announced his decision through an Instagram video on Thursday, bringing an end to speculation about his future with Portugal. In the farewell message, the forward reflected on his time representing the national team and confirmed that he was ready to hand over the iconic number seven shirt.

“The day has come for me to hand back the number seven shirt.”

His final appearance for Portugal came in the 1-0 Nations League victory over Wales on September 24. Ronaldo was subsequently an unused substitute during the 2-1 win against Norway.

The situation became more complicated after Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus indicated that Ronaldo would not start against Denmark. Following the disagreement, the forward left the national team camp, leading to further attention around the circumstances of his departure.

The fallout also resulted in a €255 fine and a backdated 30-day suspension, according to the supplied report. The developments added an unexpected element to the end of Ronaldo’s international career, which had otherwise been defined by records, major trophies and memorable performances.

Ronaldo’s Final World Cup Campaign

Ronaldo’s international career also included another World Cup appearance this summer, where he scored three goals for Portugal. However, the team’s campaign ended in the round of 16 after a defeat against eventual champions Spain.

Although Portugal did not progress further in the tournament, Ronaldo’s contribution added to an international career that had already included several major milestones. His retirement now closes a chapter that began with his emergence as a young international and developed into one of the most decorated careers in men’s football.

His record of 146 international goals and 234 appearances reflects his longevity and consistency at the highest level. Winning Euro 2016 and two Nations League titles also ensured that his time with Portugal included major team success alongside individual achievements.

Bruno Fernandes Pays Tribute to His Childhood Idol

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has also paid tribute to Ronaldo following the retirement announcement. The Portugal midfielder described sharing the dressing room and playing alongside the forward as a great privilege.

Fernandes has previously looked up to Ronaldo as a childhood idol and later had the opportunity to play alongside him for both the Portuguese national team and Manchester United. Following the announcement, he thanked the five-time Ballon d’Or winner for the inspiration he provided throughout his career.

“Thank you for the inspiration. It was a great privilege to share great moments in the national team with my childhood idol,” Fernandes wrote.

The message reflected the admiration Fernandes has for Ronaldo, whose achievements and influence have inspired several generations of Portuguese players. Their shared experiences at club and international level gave Fernandes an opportunity to play alongside a footballer he had followed since childhood.

Fernandes’ tribute also highlighted Ronaldo’s influence beyond his goals and trophies. For younger players, his career has provided an example of longevity, ambition and sustained performance at the highest level of the sport.

Portugal Federation Plans Potential Farewell Match

The Portuguese Football Federation is reportedly interested in organising a farewell match to honour Ronaldo’s contribution to the national team. Such an event would provide an opportunity for supporters, former teammates and football figures to celebrate his international career.

However, Ronaldo has not yet agreed to the proposal. Reports also suggest that he does not want Jorge Jesus to be involved if the farewell match takes place, following the disagreement that preceded his departure from the national team camp.

The possibility of a formal farewell therefore remains uncertain. The federation’s reported interest reflects the significance of Ronaldo’s contribution to Portuguese football, but the final decision will depend on whether an arrangement can be reached with the forward.

A Lasting Legacy in Portuguese Football

Ronaldo’s retirement marks the end of an era for Portugal. From his early international appearances to becoming the country’s most recognisable football figure, he has played a central role in shaping the national team’s modern history.

His 234 caps and 146 goals place him at the top of men’s international football records, while the Euro 2016 triumph and two Nations League titles remain defining achievements of his time with Portugal.

Amorim’s comments underline how Ronaldo’s impact extends beyond his statistics and performances. The forward helped bring global attention to Portugal and represented the country alongside several generations of important players. Although the circumstances of his departure were not ideal, his contribution to Portuguese football remains widely recognised.

With tributes arriving from figures such as Amorim and Fernandes, attention now turns to whether Portugal will organise an official farewell to celebrate Ronaldo’s international career. Regardless of whether that match takes place, his records, trophies and influence will remain a significant part of the country’s football history.