Cristiano Ronaldo will 'of course be at 2026 World Cup' as Vitinha insists Portugal team-mate is 'not going to give up' despite widespread criticism

The 39-year-old was widely criticised for his goalless Euro 2024, with many claiming the veteran is hindering Portugal going forward. However, Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Vitinha is confident the former Real Madrid man will be at the showpiece tournament in North America - partly because he keeps himself in such good shape.

He told RMC podcast Rothen s’enflamme: “39 years old and still a starter for the national team, I have no explanation for this longevity. He has already said it, and I imagine it’s the professionalism he has in everything he does. In the morning, in the evening, every day of his career, it’s incredible. I can imagine the efforts and sacrifices he must make and has made. And I also imagine that’s what has kept him in this condition at 39 years old. But yes, it’s a privilege for me. We are small, we are children, we dream of playing with him one day, and it’s happening. Luckily, I’ve had quite a few years to enjoy the national team with him… Of course, he will be there [at the 2026 World Cup]; he’s not going to give up.”

Ronaldo himself has said he wants to score 1,000 goals in his career, with the former Manchester United star passing the 900-mark in September. However, questions have been asked about whether Portugal boss Roberto Martinez should still pick the forward to lead his side's attack. He is still prolific in the Saudi Pro League but that didn't matter a great deal at the Euros, where he failed to score in the tournament.

Ronaldo is likely to feature in Portugal's next two Nations League fixtures, which include a home clash against Poland and an away trip to Croatia on November 15 and 18 respectively.