Portugal’s coach Roberto Martinez discloses that Ronaldo is “interested” in prospects of reaching 250 caps
With an illustrious career spanning nearly two decades, Cristiano Ronaldo has “seen it all” leaving the people wondering what the Portuguese star footballer’s long-term plans are.
Ronaldo, 38, has faced criticism in recent years for opting to choose the Saudi Pro League over the “elite” European football leagues with fans and critics even fuelling “retirement” rumours every now and then.
However, Portugal national side’s coach Roberto Martinez has disclosed that the former Man United star aims to play the game much longer as some expect him to do.
Ronaldo, who completed 200 matches for the national side in a Euro 2024 qualifier match against Liechtenstein — the highest by any player at the international level — is “interested” in reaching the 250-matches mark, Sportskeeda reported, citing Martinez’s interview with former Arsenal winger Freddie Ljungberg.
“I said [to Ronaldo] is 200 caps something that interests you or not? He said, ‘250 interests me’,” Martinez said citing his conversation with the star footballer.
The previous record for the most international appearances was held by Kuwait’s Bader Al-Mutawa who featured in 196 games.
However, in order to achieve his goal of 250 matches, Ronaldo will have to play the 2026 World Cup.
It is to be noted that Portugal won all 10 of their games in their Euro qualification with the star footballer netting 10 goals — second highest in the tournament.
