In a statement, the FPF revealed that it intends to organise a farewell “worthy of the player's career”, highlighting its “deep gratitude” towards Cristiano Ronaldo and reaffirming its desire to pay tribute to him.

“The Portuguese Football Federation expresses its deepest and eternal gratitude to the eternal captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, who announced today [5 November] his definitive farewell to the National Team. It is with a feeling of deep gratitude and immense admiration that the Portuguese Football Federation publicly pays tribute to and thanks Cristiano Ronaldo for his absolutely extraordinary journey in the service of our country,” the statement reads.

The federation praised the player, saying he is “more than an exceptional athlete”, but also “an inspiring leader, an example of dedication and the ultimate symbol of the soul of our national team”. The FPF further added that Ronaldo “carried the country on his shoulders, broke records and led the team in achieving moments that will forever be etched in the history of Portuguese football”.

The FPF thanked Cristiano Ronaldo, expressing confidence that the player will reach his 1,000th goal, and stating that “the Portuguese Football Federation refuses to let this farewell take place without a proper tribute”.

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