Portugal coach Roberto Martinez said Cristiano Ronaldo is not thinking about Wednesday’s friendly against Nigeria potentially being his last game on home soil with the national team.
Ronaldo, 41, will play in a record sixth World Cup in an attempt to claim the one major trophy missing in his career.
“Our captain sets an example in everything he does,” Martinez said of Ronaldo on Tuesday.
“He gives his all, 24 hours a day, to help the national team. Our captain and the rest of the players are not thinking about the future. We don’t know what can happen in the future because they can get injured and there are decisions that are out of their hands.
“The focus is on training, being the best, putting the concepts into practice and showing pride in wearing the shirt. That’s the example he sets. His sole aim is to use it for tomorrow to improve.”
Ronaldo is the all-time leader in appearances (227) and goals (143) for a men’s national team.
The Al Nassr star and Saudi Pro League champion made his Portugal debut in 2003. He has not indicated when he will retire from the national team.
Ronaldo is expected to start on Wednesday in Portugal’s last warmup friendly in LeirÃa before the World Cup.
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