The international break is here, and it will certainly feel different for the Portuguese team. After spending 23 years representing his country, Portuguese icon Cristiano Ronaldo decided to announce his retirement from international football.
Guinée Games takes you through his career and achievements.
Early life
Born on February 5th, 1985, on the Portuguese island of Madeira, Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro is one of the greatest footballers of all time. Behind his success was a family who made many sacrifices. Despite financial difficulties, his parents supported his passion for football and encouraged him to follow his dreams.
At around 8 years old, Ronaldo joined the local club Andorinha, where his talent began to develop. Aged just 12, he moved away from his family to Lisbon to join Sporting CP’s academy, taking an important step towards his professional career.
Beginning of his professional career
Ronaldo’s hard work and dedication soon paid off. In 2002, he made his first-team debut for Sporting CP, where his impressive performances attracted the attention of several major European clubs.
Manchester United
In 2003, at just 18 years old, Ronaldo signed for Manchester United. He was given the famous number 7 shirt, previously worn by several club legends.
Under manager Sir Alex Ferguson, Ronaldo developed into one of the world’s best footballers. He won three Premier League titles and played a key role in Manchester United’s 2008 UEFA Champions League victory. During that season, he scored 42 goals in all competitions and won his first Ballon d’Or, recognising him as the world’s best player.
His incredible speed, dribbling, skills and goal-scoring ability quickly made him a global superstar.
Real Madrid
A year later, in 2009, Ronaldo moved to Real Madrid for a then-world-record transfer fee. The player became Real Madrid’s all-time leading goalscorer, scoring 451 goals in 438 appearances!
He also went on to win four Champions League titles with the club and two La Liga titles. Four more Ballon d’Or were added to the collection, bringing his total to five trophies of the most prestigious award in football.
Real Madrid also marked the beginning of his rivalry with Lionel Messi. This arguably became one of the biggest talking points in football history.
During his time at Real Madrid, Cristiano Ronaldo became famous for his incredible goal-scoring records and big performances in important matches.
Juventus
After 9 years spent in Spain, Ronaldo moved to Italy in 2018 to play for the Bianconeri. With the team, he proceeded to win two Serie A league titles. There, he continued scoring goals and breaking records. He became the fastest Juventus player to reach 100 goals for the club, proving that he could succeed in different football leagues.
Return to Manchester United
In August 2021, Ronaldo decided to return to Manchester United. He scored twice on his second debut against Newcastle United and continued to score important goals for the team. His second spell took an end in November 2022, after a difficult period at the club.
Al-Nassr
Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia in January 2023. His arrival contributed to bring worldwide attention to Saudi Arabian football. Since, he has won the Arab Club Champions Cup in 2023. There, he continued to score goals and demonstrate his fitness and dedication to football.
International career with Portugal
Portugal has always been an important part of Cristiano Ronaldo’s identity. He is proud to represent his country, and his success has helped put Portugal and Madeira on the international map.
Ronaldo made his international debut in August 2003 and later became Portugal’s captain, following in the footsteps of Luis Figo. One of his greatest achievements was leading Portugal to victory at Euro 2016. He also helped the team win the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.
With 146 international goals in 234 appearances, Ronaldo became one of the greatest players in Portugal’s history.
Awards and achievements
- Five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
- Five-time UEFA Champions League winner.
- European Championship winner in 2016.
- Two-time UEFA Nations League winner.
- One of football’s highest-ever goal scorers.
- One of the most recognisable and influential athletes in the world.
His legacy
Cristiano Ronaldo’s journey shows how hard work, dedication and determination can turn dreams into reality. From a young boy in Madeira to one of the greatest footballers in history, he has inspired millions around the world to believe in themselves and never give up.
Throughout his career, he proudly represented Portugal for over 23 years, wearing the famous number 7 shirt. His retirement from international football marks the end of an important chapter in Portuguese football history, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
The era of CR7 in Portugal colours may be over, but international football excitement continues. Ready to get involved? Check out the latest odds and bet on international football with Guinée Games.
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