Cristiano Ronaldo still 'hungry to be the best' but 'doesn't have long-term goals' anymore, claims Portugal boss Roberto Martinez

Having enjoyed a standing at the top of world football across two decades, five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo is reluctant to take any backwards steps despite now being 40 years of age. He remains a talismanic presence for his country and with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.

Goals continue to flow for CR7 at a prolific rate, with another brace being bagged in a 5-0 victory for Portugal over Armenia in their latest 2026 World Cup qualifier. His record-setting tally of international efforts has been taken to 140 and counting.

There is the promise of more to come, with retirement seemingly still some way off. Martinez continues to find a prominent role for Ronaldo in his plans, with a born winner continuing to defy sporting logic.

Portugal boss Martinez has said of his skipper: “He lives day to day like a young player playing for the first time. The way he dedicates himself, the freshness he has every day. He's a winner. He's hungry to be the best.

“The World Cup? He's doing the best he can, he doesn't have long-term goals. He wants to be the best every day. His focus is on the day to day.”

Martinez added on Ronaldo remaining an inspiration to the next generation of talent in Portugal and millions of followers around the world: “I've already talked a lot about what he conveys, but these aren't aspects of the future, they're aspects of everyday life. What it means to wear the [Portugal] jersey is the captain's message in the locker room; it helps a lot.”

Ronaldo, with 222 international caps to his name, has signed a two-year contract extension with Al-Nassr. He continues to chase down 1,000 career goals and has another bid for World Cup glory in his sights after helping Portugal to a second UEFA Nations League crown in the summer of 2025.