According to a report by GOAL on Friday, November 6, 2026, Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has reacted to Cristiano Ronaldo's decision to retire from international football, insisting that the Portugal captain still has ambitions to achieve before ending his playing career.

Mourinho shared his thoughts on his former player while addressing journalists ahead of Real Madrid's La Liga meeting with Valencia at the Mestalla on Saturday.

The Portuguese tactician enjoyed a successful working relationship with Ronaldo during their time together at the Santiago Bernabeu between 2010 and 2013.

The pair collaborated in 164 matches across all competitions, with their most notable achievement being the 2011-12 La Liga title, which Real Madrid won under Mourinho's leadership.

Responding to questions about Ronaldo's international retirement, Mourinho stressed that the forward's decision deserved respect but cautioned against interpreting it as the end of his football career.

The former Manchester United and Chelsea manager explained that people familiar with Ronaldo's mentality would understand that the 40-year-old still has personal and professional targets he wants to accomplish.

Mourinho also expressed his wish for Ronaldo to receive a special farewell when he eventually decides to retire from professional football, arguing that such an important moment should be properly recognised.

He further dismissed suggestions that the former Real Madrid forward might immediately consider becoming a football manager after hanging up his boots.

According to Mourinho, it remains too early to determine whether coaching is something Ronaldo would want to pursue, as the Portuguese superstar has not publicly established such ambitions.

Ronaldo's international retirement has generated considerable attention, particularly because of his long-standing importance to Portugal and his achievements with the national team.

Meanwhile, Mourinho is concentrating on Real Madrid's domestic campaign as his team prepare for their trip to Valencia.

Los Blancos occupy third position in the La Liga standings with 27 points and are looking to maintain their impressive run of form.

The Spanish giants have won their last seven matches across all competitions, including a 3-2 Champions League victory over AEK Athens.

Mourinho will now hope his players continue their winning momentum against Valencia as Real Madrid attempt to close the gap on Barcelona at the top of the standings.