Riise Urges Ronaldo to Retire, Citing Burden on Portugal

Former Liverpool and Fulham defender John Arne Riise has called for Cristiano Ronaldo to end his international career, arguing that the Portuguese legend is no longer capable of performing at the highest level and has become a burden to the national team.

Riise, a former Norway international, suggested that coach Roberto Martinez failed to manage the situation surrounding the 41-year-old forward assertively. Portugal's elimination in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup has reignited debates about Ronaldo's role, with many believing his presence limits the team's tactical flexibility. Riise stated that Martinez should have prioritized the team's interests over giving special treatment to a player considered one of the greatest of all time.

"I know the Portugal coach loves Ronaldo, but the whole situation at the World Cup this time was rather sad," Riise told BestBettingSites. "At one point he failed to score, then he scored a few goals, but then he faded again. The coach should have been firmer and prioritized the team over an individual."

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I know the Portugal coach loves Ronaldo, but the whole situation at the World Cup this time was rather sad. At one point he failed to score, then he scored a few goals, but then he faded again. The coach should have been firmer and prioritized the team over an individual.

Despite Ronaldo holding the record for the all-time leading international goalscorer, Riise believes the former Real Madrid and Manchester United star lacks the physical capacity to compete at the top level. He urged Ronaldo not to continue with Portugal until Euro 2028, stating it is time for the new generation to be given opportunities. "I don't think Ronaldo will be ready for the Euros. He should end his international career and give chances to young players. Modern football requires all 11 players to work hard. Ronaldo no longer does that, and I think his presence now weakens Portugal rather than helps them."

The pressure for Ronaldo to retire has intensified following Portugal's 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, where the Al-Nassr forward scored only one goal during the knockout stages. However, Ronaldo himself has stated he is not ready to make a decision about his future and intends to spend time with his family before determining whether to continue playing for Portugal.

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I don't think Ronaldo will be ready for the Euros. He should end his international career and give chances to young players. Modern football requires all 11 players to work hard. Ronaldo no longer does that, and I think his presence now weakens Portugal rather than helps them.