The journey begins! Cristiano Ronaldo's son receives maiden Portugal call-up after impressing in Al-Nassr academy ranks as door left open to play alongside his father

Five-time Ballon d’Or winner CR7 will need to prolong his playing career for a few years yet in order to make that possible. He is, however, showing no sign of slowing down at 40 years of age.

Cristiano Jr is working alongside his famous father at Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr. A collection of eye-catching performances at academy level have earned him a maiden selection by Portugal in their U15 squad.

Ronaldo reacted to the news on Instagram, saying: "I'm proud of you, son."

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has previously said of potentially lining up in the same side as Cristiano Jr at some stage: “I would like it, I would like it. It's not something that keeps me up at night, but I would like it. We'll see. It's more in his hands than in mine.”

The promising forward, who has inherited tricky feet and an eye for goal, is set to take part in the Vlatko Markovic International Tournament in Croatia between 13-18 May. He will be eager to see game time there.

Cristiano Jr is, due to family ties and residency rules, eligible to play for five different countries: Portugal, the United States, Spain, England and Cape Verde. For now, he appears destined to follow in the most illustrious of footsteps at international level.