According to a report by GOAL on Friday, November 6, 2026, Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has reacted to Cristiano Ronaldo's decision to retire from international football, saying the Portugal captain still has personal and professional ambitions to fulfil before bringing his playing career to an end.

Mourinho spoke about his former player while addressing journalists ahead of Real Madrid's La Liga clash with Valencia at the Mestalla on Saturday.

The Portuguese manager shared a successful spell with Ronaldo at Santiago Bernabeu between 2010 and 2013, during which they worked together in 164 matches across all competitions.

Their biggest achievement together was winning the 2011-12 La Liga title, with Mourinho leading Real Madrid to the championship.

Speaking about Ronaldo's international retirement, Mourinho said the forward's decision should be respected but warned against viewing it as a sign that he is preparing to end his professional football career.

The former Manchester United and Chelsea manager explained that anyone familiar with Ronaldo's mentality would know that the 40-year-old still has several personal and professional goals he wants to achieve.

Mourinho also said he hoped Ronaldo would receive a memorable farewell when he eventually decides to retire from club football, stressing that such a significant moment deserves proper recognition.

He also played down suggestions that the former Real Madrid forward could immediately turn to management after ending his playing career.

According to Mourinho, it is too early to establish whether coaching is something Ronaldo intends to pursue, as the Portuguese superstar has not publicly indicated that he has such ambitions.

Ronaldo's decision to retire from international football has attracted widespread attention because of his significant contribution to Portugal and his achievements with the national team.

Meanwhile, Mourinho remains focused on Real Madrid's domestic campaign as his side prepare for their away fixture against Valencia.

Los Blancos currently sit third in the La Liga table with 27 points and will be looking to maintain their strong run of form.

The Spanish giants have won their last seven matches in all competitions, including a 3-2 victory over AEK Athens in the Champions League.

Mourinho will now hope his players extend that winning streak against Valencia as Real Madrid seek to reduce the gap between themselves and league leaders Barcelona.