Ronaldo after World Cup farewell: Portugal had not won any title before my era

Ibrahim bin Mohammed from Riyadh

Tuesday, July 7, 2026 2:4 | 1 minutes reading

Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of the Portuguese national team and Saudi club Al-Nassr, said he is leaving the 2026 World Cup with a completely clear conscience, noting that he gave everything he had for his country's shirt.

He added in statements after Portugal's official farewell to the World Cup from the round of 16 following a 1-0 loss to Spain, that he achieved titles that did not exist before his football era.

The market value of the Spanish football team is estimated at around 1.22 billion euros, compared to 1.01 billion euros for Portugal, according to data from the website 'Transfermarkt'.

Wed, 01 2026

He continued: 'How did I wake up today? The same way, with a clear conscience. I gave my best. I won two titles with Portugal. Before Cristiano, Portugal had not won any title, so I am happy.'

He elaborated: 'In fact, the biggest title I won with the national team was in 2016, which for me holds the same magnitude and importance as the World Cup, to be honest. That is why, I repeat, I leave with a clear conscience. I did my utmost, and that's it. Tomorrow will be a new day, and life goes on.'

During this World Cup edition, Ronaldo managed to enhance his records, becoming the first player in football history to score in six different editions of the World Cup.

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