A report says Portugal may be considering the Wales meeting in the Nations League on 24 September as a possible final appearance for Ronaldo at Sporting’s Estádio José Alvalade. That possibility remains unconfirmed, with Portugal’s federation yet to announce a formal farewell.
Ronaldo’s international legacy is built on longevity, leadership and silverware. He captained Portugal to Euro 2016 and played a central role in the country’s Nations League successes. His departure would close an era in which Portugal moved from respected outsiders to a consistent contender for major honours.
The uncertainty is understandable. Ronaldo has reportedly said that the 2026 World Cup was his final tournament, but he did not immediately retire after Portugal’s elimination. A decision to continue into the Nations League would give him one more competitive stage before the curtain falls.
Messi’s position with Argentina is similarly unclear. He has not officially retired, while reports suggest he could remain available briefly before a formal farewell is arranged.
His international story changed permanently with the 2022 World Cup, followed by another deep run in the next tournament. Earlier Copa América disappointments made those triumphs especially significant, transforming the debate around his place in Argentina’s history.
Unlike Ronaldo, Messi’s final appearance may depend less on a planned home farewell than on his physical readiness and desire to continue. Argentina’s next competitive cycle will therefore carry an extra layer of uncertainty.
If both retire soon, football will lose its defining international rivalry without a single shared farewell stage. Their careers followed different routes, but each elevated his national team’s expectations and identity.
The next Nations League fixtures for Portugal and Argentina’s upcoming international programme will determine whether these legends are preparing for one last campaign - or one last goodbye.