Full conference talks from CR7: No CWC, might wake up tomorrow and retire

Cristiano Ronaldo was the Portuguese player chosen to address the press in Munich ahead of the Nations League final against Spain.

“Every match tells a different story. We beat Germany, and we hope tomorrow will be a joyful day for Portugal. Finals are like that—Spain haven’t lost in 24 games, but Portugal have their strengths too, and we’ll step onto the pitch believing everything will go well,” said the forward.

Joking with the press

“I didn’t feel like talking to you lot! (laughs) Just kidding...Whenever I wake up feeling low, I look for ways to lift my spirits. I’ve done that all my life—not just in football, but beyond it too.”

On the Spanish National Team

“Part of my family is Spanish, so I’ve always had a special affection for them. Spain have always been among the best teams in the world. They’re a very capable side, especially with midfielders like Pedri. A whole new generation is emerging, including the coach, who’s raising the level for everyone. I’ve played against Spain many times—I hope it’s an entertaining match and that Portugal can come out on top.”

On rumours About Roberto Martínez

“If a coach reaches the final, it’s because he’s done an excellent job. I find it baffling that people are still questioning him. If someone reaches the final and still gets criticised, imagine the rest. There’s been a real lack of respect. Commenting on other coaches shows a serious lack of awareness. Our coach has done an extraordinary job—and that’s part of football: all the parrots sitting at home giving their opinions. We’re very happy with the coach. He’s come in, learnt our language, sings the anthem, and brings passion every day. That’s what I value most. What matters are the results, and those have been positive. Whether we win or not will always be debated—but to me, that makes no sense.”

On years without trophies

“Of course I’ve missed lifting trophies. But there are years when you don’t win—that’s football. You can’t win every time. Tomorrow is our last chance this season. It’s going to be a tough game, but it’s definitely possible.”

On his hat-trick against Spain at the 2018 World Cup

“Life is made of memories—they shape who we are. But over the years, football has taught me that the past is the past. We should live in the present as if it were our last day. We’re going to compete for a beautiful trophy—one that Portugal have already won, and we want to win again.”

On Lamine Yamal

“He’s doing brilliantly, both at his club and with a national team that support him. He’s in the right environment to show what he can do. But to really enjoy a player like that, we need to give him space to grow and ease the pressure. He’s very talented. Any advice for Lamine? I’ll give advice to anyone who wants it—but always in private.”

On comparisons with Yamal

“It’s always been Cristiano versus someone—I’m used to it. These are different generations; one is just starting, and the other is finishing. They should compare Lamine with Vitinha, they’re closer in age. But that’s fine—I can take the criticism. In the end, it’s one team against another. I get it. The media like to stoke the fire—it’s normal, and it makes things exciting. What matters most to me is that Portugal play well and win—especially against a team that’s probably the best in the world.”

On favourites for the Ballon d’Or

“Individual awards have lost their consensus; I can’t say who should win. In my opinion, whoever stands out and wins the Champions League should take it. But there’s no real agreement anymore. I don’t put much stock in individual awards because I know what goes on behind the scenes. Lamine could win it, or Dembélé, or Vitinha—there are a lot of emerging players. But honestly, individual accolades don’t mean much.”

On the Club World Cup

“It’s irrelevant—the national team is what matters. Yes, there were plenty of contacts—some serious, some not. I won’t be going to the Club World Cup, though I’ve had lots of offers.”

On playing at 40

“I live day by day, in the present—I don’t think much about the future. That’s how I’ve always approached life. I haven’t got many more years left—my career speaks for itself. But I’m enjoying the moment. Maybe tomorrow I’ll wake up and decide I don’t want to play anymore. But right now, I don’t feel that way—I’m really happy. It’s not the same as when you’re winning everything, but I’m still enjoying it. Let’s see what happens.”