Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that he will continue playing for Portugal and believes he can still help the national team win games despite criticism over his age and international career.

The 41-year-old said he is not ready to end his international career yet after speaking with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation and newly appointed head coach Jorge Jesus.

Ronaldo currently holds the world records for the most international appearances (233) and goals (146), having made his Portugal debut in 2003.

Cristiano Ronaldo Considered Portugal Retirement After 2026 World Cup

Ronaldo's future with the Selecao was a topic of discussion following Portugal's exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Al Nassr striker scored three goals in five games for Portugal before they were eliminated by Spain in Texas.

When asked whether he had considered retiring from international football after the World Cup, Ronaldo told ESPN: "Yes I did. Of course, I'm always thinking on my decisions, my future, the present also. 

"I'm a thinker. You have to think. This is why you see me here now. It means I will continue. 

"I had a conversation with our president, with our coach. I still believe that I'm able to help the national team to reach what they want, and will finish when I feel like I'm not doing anything here. 

"I think I can give to the national team my support, not only through the goals, but also outside of football. 

"This is a new young generation. But for me the basic point is to be able on the pitch to score the goals and to help the team win games."

Cristiano Ronaldo Responds to Critics Over His Portugal Future

Portugal will begin their quest for a third UEFA Nations League title on Thursday with their first Group D matches against Wales on Thursday.

Ronaldo said some critics are ‘dying for him not to come to the national team anymore’, while adding that he still receives plenty of support from people in Portugal.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star said that he is focused on helping the Selecao win as many games as possible despite criticism from his detractors.

"I said it quite often at home with my friends," he continued. "I've been playing football for so many years, I have been welcome almost everywhere, apart from a few exceptions.

"I feel the Portuguese fans like me, but I do understand that some TV channels want to criticise me -- they've tried to kill me, but only with a shotgun.

"They are dying for me not to come to the national team anymore, but I can still move away from it.

"Anyway, I am used to it. For over 20 years I have been doing this, but my memories are with people who love me."

Ronaldo is expected to play a part in Thursday's Nations League match against Wales after head coach Jorge Jesus described him as ‘a symbol of Portuguese football’.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner is 21 goals shy of reaching his target of 1,000 career goals for club and country.