Ronaldo: Media Trying to Kill Me

Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo declared that "some channels like to attack me and try to kill me," during his participation in a football summit in his home country. These statements precede the kickoff of the UEFA Nations League competition. The seasoned 41-year-old star is preparing for a new chapter with the Portuguese national team, under the guidance of its new technical director, Jorge Jesus. Jesus is set to begin his tenure with a match against Wales in the UEFA Nations League. In statements highlighted by the Spanish newspaper "AS," Ronaldo discussed preparing for the upcoming phase, saying: "We are preparing for a new phase, and we must thank the former coach Roberto Martinez for what he provided despite all the criticism he faced. Now we have a coach known to everyone, Jorge Jesus, and I am confident that things will go well with him." Responding to a question regarding the criticism faced by the Portuguese national team, Ronaldo stated: "I must adhere to a degree of diplomacy; I cannot be completely frank, but what I can say is that I have received a great welcome this year." He added: "I understand that the media tries to kill me, but this will only be achieved by a rifle bullet, and even in that case, I will evade the bullet." Regarding some people's dislike for him, the star commented: "I have become accustomed to some people not liking me, but I cannot control that, and regarding some not liking me, it does not bother me." Asked about his retirement date, the former Real Madrid and Juventus star replied: "I don't know; I hope I knew the answer to this question, but it is probable that this season is my last." He continued: "When the date of my last match comes, I will announce it, and I know that many want me to leave now." The Portuguese star revealed that he considered retirement after the end of his national team's journey in the 2026 World Cup finals. However, he clarified: "But as long as I am here, it means I have decided to continue, after feeling a desire from the coach and the federation president for me to stay." He explained: "I can help the national team not only in terms of scoring goals but also in helping the new generation, but the most important thing for me is to stay on the field and score goals."