The key facts
- Diogo Dalot thanked Ronaldo after his departure from the Portugal national team
- Ronaldo ended his international career after 23 years of playing
- During Ronaldo's era, Portugal won Euro 2016 and two Nations League titles
Dalot addressed Ronaldo after his departure from the national team
Portugal national team defender Diogo Dalot joined the players bidding farewell to Cristiano Ronaldo after his decision to end his career with the national team. Dalot's message was cited by Life.ru. 'You made us dream, made us believe, and made us WIN! Thank you, idol,' the defender wrote in a short, emotional message to the long-time captain.
Why these words are symbolic
The symbolism of the message lies in the generational gap: when Ronaldo made his debut for Portugal in 2003, Dalot was only four years old. Later, he not only found himself in the same national team as Ronaldo but also got to play alongside him at Manchester United. Ronaldo ended his national team career after 23 years of playing; in his farewell message, according to Life.ru, he spoke specifically about young footballers and the new generations who must keep dreaming and believing that the once unattainable can be achieved. It was precisely this role — the man who taught the new generation to believe in victory — that Dalot emphasized.
Ronaldo's record with Portugal
During his years with the national team, Ronaldo became its all-time top scorer and captained the side that won Euro 2016 and two Nations League titles. Life.ru also reported that British media called the conflict with Jesus 'the gloomy finale of the Ronaldo era'; more details on what preceded his departure and whether the footballer will keep playing were examined by the outlet in a separate article. No official details about Ronaldo's future plans are given in the sources.
