Portugal manager Roberto Martinez stated that “no individual decisions” have been made regarding the international futures of Cristiano Ronaldo and Pepe following their Euro 2024 quarter-final loss to France.
Ronaldo, 39, and Pepe, 41, have been key players for Portugal throughout the tournament. Ronaldo played every minute in the knockout stages, including the shootout victory over Slovenia and the penalty loss to France. Pepe set a record by becoming the oldest player in European Championship history.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s final trip to the Euros is over. pic.twitter.com/pZyeXRE6IQ
— B/R Football (@brfootball) July 5, 2024
After the match, the two shared an emotional moment on the pitch, with Pepe in tears as Ronaldo comforted him. Martinez praised Pepe’s contribution, stating, “His tears are frustration. Pepe is a role model in Portuguese football. What he did tonight and in the tournament will stay with us for the next generations.”
When questioned about the possibility of the match being the last for Ronaldo and Pepe with the national team, Martinez responded, “No. Everything is too raw. We are still suffering the defeat. There’s no individual decisions at this point.”