Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has seemingly dropped a slight hint as to when the world can expect Cristiano Ronaldo to call time on his international career.
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The five-time Ballon d'Or winner began his time with the national team two decades ago, but is still an integral part of the side.
Despite his 10 goals during 2024 UEFA European Championship qualification helping his side to a 100% record during the group stage, there seems to be questions about how much longer the ex-Manchester United and Real Madrid forward can continue contributing at this level.
The legendary striker will be 39 years old when the next Euros begin, but given Martinez's latest statements, not only can we expect the legendary marksman to be present for that edition but long after that too.
"He was very close to 200 caps, something no other player had achieved before," the Spaniard said, as per the Daily Mirror.
"Of course, the conversation we had is private, but I can reveal one of the things he told me.
"[I asked him] if reaching 200 caps would interest you, and he told me: '250 interests me."
The striker currently has 205 appearances for the 2016 European champions, so for him to get to 250 would likely require him to play at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, by which time he would be 41 years old.
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While some feel Ronaldo is now past his best, the statistics suggest that he is likely going to end 2023 as the top goalscorer for club and country in the world as he already has 53 goals for Al Nassr and Portugal this year.
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