Cristiano Ronaldo does not want to win the World Cup “because of Lionel Messi”, Eric Djemba-Djemba has told GOAL, with the Portuguese GOAT driven by an insatiable desire to succeed. A global title on North American soil this summer would, however, complete the 41-year-old’s medal collection and see him emulate the achievements of his eternal rival.
Former Portugal team manager Carlos Godinho has expressed a deep desire to see Cristiano Ronaldo finish his legendary international career by lifting the World Cup trophy. With the Al-Nassr forward now 41 heading into the 2026 tournament, those close to the Selecao believe this may be his final chance to secure the one major prize missing from his cabinet.
Cristiano Ronaldo might have lost a tiny fraction of his peak speed, but former Portugal team-mate Ricardo insists the legendary forward remains a lethal goalscoring machine. Now working as the national team's goalkeeper coach, Ricardo explains how the 41-year-old icon has evolved his game from a tricky dribbler into a devastating striker whose hunger and passion remain totally unmatched.
Manchester City defender Ruben Dias is not convinced the 2026 World Cup will mark the end for veterans like 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, defending champion Lionel Messi, 38, and Luka Modric, 40. The Portuguese centre-back discussed the immense motivation his squad feels to capture the only major trophy their iconic captain has failed to win.
Portugal boss Roberto Martinez has sensationally refused to rule out Cristiano Ronaldo featuring in the 2030 World Cup. Despite the Al-Nassr superstar being 41 years old, his international manager believes his unique mental drive could see him competing when the tournament reaches Portuguese shores.
Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proenca has addressed whether Cristiano Ronaldo will still be leading the line for the Selecao when they co-host the 2030 World Cup. The Al-Nassr superstar remains the focal point of the national team, but questions regarding his longevity continue to dominate the headlines.
Cristiano Ronaldo remains the central figure of debate as Portugal gears up for another World Cup campaign, with fans and pundits divided on his role. Lyon boss Paulo Fonseca has now added his expert voice to the conversation, addressing whether the legendary forward is a boost or a burden for the national team.
The World Cup has had no shortage of iconic moments across nearly 100 years of history. Every four years, billions of fans congregate to watch a tournament that has provided more drama, heartbreak and joy than any other event in sporting history. Football's grandest stage, the World Cup has always offered a platform for legends to be born, but it has also seen reputations destroyed and the downfall of so many famous faces.
Cristiano Ronaldo has conquered the world of football, but the Portuguese icon might be eyeing a shocking second act in Hollywood once he finally hangs up his boots. While the Al-Nassr superstar remains focused on his record-breaking career and his final World Cup in 2026, those who have made the leap to acting believe he can succeed - provided he does just "one thing" right.
Cristiano Ronaldo is making the most of a rare break from the pitch, whisking Georgina Rodriguez and their children away for a luxury getaway in Saudi Arabia. The Al-Nassr superstar is soaking up the sun before he shifts his focus to leading Portugal in what is expected to be his final appearance on the global stage.
The role that Gary Neville and Roy Keane played in turning Cristiano Ronaldo into a footballing “robot” has been explained to GOAL by Eric Djemba-Djemba, with the Portuguese icon wiping away tears while heading down the path to superstardom. Some rough treatment was handed out during his first spell at Manchester United, but the all-time great has never been the type to back down from a challenge.
FIFA has confirmed the key dates and squad regulations for the 2026 World Cup. Nations must submit their final player lists by June 1, with strict rules in place regarding injuries, replacements and goalkeeper selections.
Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot believes that leading Portugal to ultimate glory at the 2026 World Cup would provide a fittingly beautiful finale to Cristiano Ronaldo's iconic career. The versatile full-back emphasised that the entire footballing world, not just their home nation, will be uniting to support the veteran forward's quest.
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.
Portugal
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