Cristiano Ronaldo told he 'has no limit' despite 'over for him' claims as Portugal star is backed to start at World Cup aged 41

Having passed his 40th birthday, questions are being asked of how much longer CR7 can continue at the very highest level. He has made a career of silencing any doubters and producing exploits of the superhuman variety.

Ronaldo has offered no indication that he is ready to consider retirement, as he chases down 1,000 career goals, and is set to remain part of the Portugal international squad through to another major tournament in 2026.

Emmanuel Petit, a World Cup winner with France in 1998, sees no reason why Ronaldo cannot prolong his playing days. He concedes that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner poses some selection issues, but has seen nothing to suggest that he has lost any of his appetite for success.

Ex-Arsenal, Chelsea and Barcelona midfielder Petit told pokerfirma.com: "When you have Cristiano Ronaldo in your team, you don't know as a manager if you have to play him in the first 11 or as a substitute, because let’s be honest, at Euro 2024 his performances were not that good for Portugal.

"But I think this guy has no limit. He treats his body very professionally, and he's 40. People may think it's probably over for him now, his international career, but this guy has so much motivation and anger, which I think could have a positive influence if he's in the team.

"When you have Cristiano Ronaldo, what do you do? Are you putting him in the first 11 every single game, or are you using him as a substitute for 30 minutes, 45 minutes? This is my question.

"Cristiano Ronaldo is such a huge name that it’s complicated for any manager to put him on the bench. The Cristiano Ronaldo situation is a really difficult one for Roberto Martinez because he’s such a superstar. It’s very complicated for him – no manager wants to be the guy that tells Ronaldo you’re on the bench or you’re not playing anymore. Because of his profile, because of his status, he’s a very difficult player to manage."

Ronaldo has helped Portugal to another UEFA Nations League semi-final, with more silverware up for grabs there, and is expected to agree an extension to his record-breaking contract at Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr.