Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing for what is almost certainly his final dance on the World Cup stage, but his role within the Portugal national team is once again under intense scrutiny. As the Al-Nassr striker eyes the only trophy missing from his glittering cabinet, former USMNT star Taylor Twellman has suggested that his presence actually hinders a squad packed with world-class talent.
Cristiano Ronaldo has been tipped to defy the ageing process by competing in the 2030 World Cup with Portugal, potentially alongside his son, at the age of 45. The Al-Nassr forward has received the backing for a "perfect ending" to his career from his ex-Manchester United team-mate Eric Djemba-Djemba.
Luiz Felipe Scolari opened up about the eternal rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, revealing previously unknown details of his relationship with the Portuguese captain. The former national team coach explained the emotional and professional reasons behind his choices in the polls for the best player in the world.
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has addressed a sensational squad selection storm after confirming defender Antonio Silva accidentally leaked a full starting line-up during a major tournament. The manager fiercely defended the Benfica centre-back’s integrity, clarifying that his omission from the upcoming 2026 World Cup was purely tactical.
Roberto Martinez has opened up on how Portugal intend to handle Cristiano Ronaldo during the 2026 World Cup, insisting the approach will be "very natural." As the legendary forward prepares for what is expected to be his final appearance on the world stage, his international manager has clarified that traditional club metrics will not apply in the heat of a tournament.
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has revealed that the national team made a formal approach for Bournemouth's teenage sensation Eli Junior Kroupi ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The 19-year-old forward, who boasts an impressive Premier League record this season, ultimately chose to stick with the French setup, ending Portugal's hopes of a high-profile international transfer.
Cristiano Ronaldo is set to make history after being named in Portugal’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. The 41-year-old captain could appear at a record sixth finals as Roberto Martinez also confirmed several notable omissions from his final selection.
Vitinha has revealed how Cristiano Ronaldo continues to inspire Portugal’s squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The midfielder says the team hopes to win the tournament alongside - and for - their iconic captain.
Roberto Martinez has dismissed any suggestion that Cristiano Ronaldo's move to the Saudi Pro League has diminished his effectiveness on the international stage. Following a scouting mission to Riyadh, the Portugal head coach expressed his admiration for the veteran striker’s enduring hunger and physical condition as he prepares for another World Cup.
The World Cup has been the home of some of the very best players in football's history so it is little surprise that the subject of the best goal at the tournament is so hotly debated. Diego Maradona, Pele, and even Benjamin Pavard would put forward their own arguments for the prize, but which of them come out on top, if any?! GOAL guides you through the 15 best goals in the World Cup finals.
Sebastian Soria is on the verge of making World Cup history as the Qatar veteran has been named in Julen Lopetegui's preliminary squad for the 2026 tournament. At 42 years old, the forward is poised to eclipse the long-standing record held by Cameroon icon Roger Milla as the oldest outfield player to ever grace the competition, opening the door for Cristiano Ronaldo.
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has opened up on the relentless drive of Cristiano Ronaldo. Approaching the twilight of his career, the legendary forward remains fiercely dedicated. Martinez insists the veteran is no longer motivated by financial rewards or adding to his vast trophy cabinet, but rather by an insatiable, unique hunger for continuous personal improvement.
Former Portugal manager Paulo Bento has admitted his relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo deteriorated during their time together with the national team. The coach says he refused to compromise his principles despite tensions with the star forward.
Lionel Messi has provided a surprising assessment of the international landscape ahead of the 2026 World Cup, suggesting that several nations are currently better equipped than Argentina to lift the trophy. The Inter Miami superstar identified four specific rivals he believes are entering the tournament in superior form compared to the defending champions, including Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo.
Cristiano Ronaldo could grace the 2030 World Cup, former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen has told GOAL, as a home finals in Portugal are “not too far” away for the history-making GOAT. The Al-Nassr superstar may be 41 years of age, but the evergreen frontman has proved over the course of his remarkable career that anything is possible and he likes nothing more than making a mockery of biological and sporting logic.
Cristiano Ronaldo is still hoping to become a team-mate of eldest son Cristiano Junior, with former Manchester United colleague Louis Saha telling GOAL that it is “easier” for CR7 to live that “dream” than it was for LeBron James in NBA circles. One GOAT has already made professional sport a family business, with it possible that another could follow that lead.
Mateus Mane continues to generate plenty of interest at Wolves, with Michael Gray telling GOAL that Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has already asked questions of the teenage wonderkid. Several other heavyweight outfits are said to be monitoring the talented 18-year-old, who faces some big decisions on his future at club and international level.
Cristiano Ronaldo has candidly admitted that the final whistle on his legendary career is approaching fast. The Portuguese icon, now 41, remains the driving force behind Al-Nassr’s pursuit of silverware, but has acknowledged that his time at the top is naturally reaching its conclusion.
Cristiano Ronaldo could still star in the Champions League at 41 years of age, the Portuguese GOAT’s former Manchester United team-mate Louis Saha has told GOAL. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who is now plying his trade in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr, is considered to have “three things” that make him “unique” and capable of gracing any stage.
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has set his sights on delivering the 2026 World Cup for Cristiano Ronaldo as the ultimate tribute to the iconic forward's career. The midfielder believes winning the global showpiece would be the perfect way to reward his long-time team-mate for his unparalleled contribution to the sport.
Real Madrid legend Fernando Hierro has identified the unique trait that allows Cristiano Ronaldo to remain a dominant force in world football as he nears his sixth World Cup finals. The former Al-Nassr sporting director insists that the 41-year-old’s professional discipline makes him a certainty to lead the Portugal attack during the upcoming tournament.
Portugal
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