For 23 years, Cristiano Ronaldo was the heartbeat of Portugal, carrying a nation’s hopes from his teenage debut to the final chapter of an extraordinary international career.

The former Manchester United superstar announced his retirement on Thursday, bringing an end to an era that once seemed impossible to imagine without him.

Ronaldo scored 146 goals in 234 appearances, setting men’s international records that may endure for generations.

He captained Portugal to their first European Championship in 2016, before lifting the Nations League trophy in 2019 and 2025.

From tears after the Euro 2004 final defeat to celebrations in Paris twelve years later, Ronaldo’s journey became entwined with the nation’s footballing identity.

For United supporters, his international triumphs were another reminder of the player who arrived at Old Trafford in 2003 and became a Ballon d’Or winner.

Portugal now face the unfamiliar task of moving forward without their most famous number seven.

Meanwhile, United head into the international break buoyed by Tuesday’s astonishing 3-2 Champions League comeback against AS Roma, although the evening exposed defensive weaknesses.

Now, Portugal have confirmed their first selection since Ronaldo’s departure, with two United stars included.

Portugal name Manchester United duo for November fixtures

Portugal’s official Instagram account has confirmed that Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot are in Jorge Jesus’ squad for the upcoming 2026/27 Nations League matches.

Portugal face Denmark on 14 November and Wales on 17 November, having already secured a quarter-final place.

Fernandes heads into the games after inspiring United’s recovery against Roma. The captain had his first penalty saved but converted the retake in the 58th minute, sparking the comeback before Matheus Cunha’s late double.

Dalot endured a more complicated evening at left-back. Caught high up the pitch for Roma’s opener, he also nearly gifted the visitors a third goal with a costly mistake in possession.

Both now have an opportunity to help Portugal begin a new chapter without Ronaldo.

 

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