Cristiano Ronaldo's international story continues as he is called up to Portugal squad

Cristiano Ronaldo's international story continues as he is called up to Portugal squad

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 16:43 - 17.03.2023

Legendary forward Cristiano Ronaldo has been named in Roberto Martínez’s Portugal squad for the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers against Liechtenstein and Luxembourg.

Ronaldo, 38, moved to Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr at the beginning of the year after his second spell at Manchester United ended abruptly under unfortunate circumstances.

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The former Juventus and Real Madrid forward was unable to make a real impact at the World Cup in Qatar as Portugal were knocked out by underdogs Morocco in the quarter-finals.

Ronaldo's Portugal career continues

After former Portugal head coach, Fernando Santos, left Ronaldo on the bench for two knock-out games at the World Cup, many believed his international career was at a sad end. 

However, new boss, Roberto Martinez has included the five-time Ballon d'Or winner in his squad for the upcoming internationals, preserving Ronaldo's glittering career.

On the decision to select Ronaldo, Martinez told reporters: 

Cristiano Ronaldo is a very committed player. He can bring experience and is a very important figure for the team. I don't look at age.”

Ronaldo has 118 goals for Portugal which is the highest number of international goals in men’s football history. 

He can extend that record and move even further away from Ali Daei in second place, who has 109 and Lionel Messi who is third, with 98.

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