Cristiano Ronaldo gave an exclusive interview to Portugal's Now Canal TV channel

Cristiano Ronaldo gave an exclusive interview to Portugal's Now Canal TV channel, where he reflected on this summer's European Championship and mentioned that he will not become a coach after retiring.

On his future with the national team:

"I have been serving the national team for over 20 years. As everyone knows, I am very proud to represent our country; it is a dream. So, when I leave the national team, I won’t inform anyone in advance; it will be a very natural decision for me, but also a well-considered one. For now, I want to help the national team in the upcoming games. The Nations League is about to start, and I am eager to participate."

On the loss at the 2024 European Championship:

"This wasn't the balance everyone expected—that is, the kind of balance that would allow us to win matches. I think our balance was mediocre. We learned a very important lesson from the European Championship. I see a bright future for the new generation of Portuguese players and the current ones. We must always believe that the national team will perform better in future matches."

On Spain's victory:

"I think Spain was undoubtedly the best team in this European Championship, which is why they won. They successfully eliminated the strongest teams along the way. This new generation of players, made up of young and experienced players, led a revolution. So we should congratulate them because they are truly deserving winners."

On his interest in the Portuguese league:

"Of course, whenever I have time, I follow the Portuguese league, especially Sporting CP, but I also follow other leagues. Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus—these are clubs I have played for. As a professional player, I enjoy watching other leagues, especially the Portuguese league, because I have been there, and also because I am Portuguese. That’s why my greatest wish is for Sporting CP to win this tough league this season. Porto and Benfica also have excellent teams, which will make the title race more complicated. But I hope that Sporting CP can win the league with the same level as last season."

On when he might retire:

"I don’t know if I will retire soon or in two to three years, but it could be with Al Nassr. Whether domestically or in the league, it is a team that makes me happy, where I perform well and feel good. So, it is very likely that I will end my career with Al Nassr. I am happy to play in the Saudi league, and I want to continue playing."

On whether he will become a coach after his playing career ends:

"It’s hard... I don’t think I will consider becoming a coach of any team now. I have never thought about it. I don’t think my future will be like that; I think I will do something outside of football. But only God knows what the future holds."

On his investment in the media industry:

"My assessment is obviously very positive. An independent company with excellent professionals is particularly important for combating fake news. What I hope most is for them to continue to succeed. I look forward to new projects. Although it hasn’t been long, I have a lot of trust in the management team of this group, and I do not regret entering this industry. I hope for a great transformation and that things will have the best outcomes. That is what I most want to see."

"For me, Vista Alegre is an exceptional global brand. I am very proud to work with such a great Portuguese company. As everyone knows, I have investments in many areas, and what I want most is to continue helping these companies to become better and better, just like myself, whether inside or outside the football world. I hope to achieve more and greater accomplishments outside of football, in this field."