Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing for one last attempt to claim the most coveted trophy in world football: the 2026 World Cup. At 39 years old, he continues to surprise fans and experts with his longevity and impact, remaining a key player for both the Portuguese national team and the club he represents, Al Nassr, from Saudi Arabia.
The captain of the Portuguese national team has already accumulated 228 international caps and 143 goals, absolutely historic numbers that place him at the top of global records. He made his debut for the national team in 2003, still a teenager, and since then has been a protagonist in establishing Portugal as a powerhouse in international football. Among his greatest achievements are winning the European Championship in 2016 and two UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025, accomplishments that further elevated Portugal’s name on the global stage.
*O Mundial vive-se com a LEGO*
THE 2026 WORLD CUP LIVES ON WITH LEGO
The importance of this news lies in the unique stature of Cristiano Ronaldo, not only for his longevity at the highest level but also for the ambition he maintains intact. Although he has never lifted the World Cup trophy, Ronaldo led Portugal to the semi-finals of the 2006 World Cup, the best performance by the national team since 1966. Since then, he has participated in five more editions of the tournament, always striving to take the national team to the highest level. The possibility of seeing Ronaldo compete in his sixth World Cup is a testament to his dedication and the impact he continues to have, not only in Portugal but throughout the world of football. For Portuguese fans, hope is renewed: could this finally be the time that the national team reaches the pinnacle of the world with its greatest icon?
Ronaldo has never hidden his frustration at not having won the World Cup. On several occasions, he has made clear his desire to achieve this title, as he reaffirmed recently: “The dream is still alive. I will work every day to give everything for the national team. As long as I feel I can help Portugal, I will be available,” declared the Portuguese forward in an interview following the qualification for the 2026 World Cup. The national coach, when asked about the influence of the captain, emphasized: “Cristiano is an example of professionalism and leadership. His presence motivates all the players and elevates the level of the team,” he stated at a press conference after the last qualifying round.
Regarding his club career, Ronaldo has represented Al Nassr in the Saudi League since December 2022, having transferred there after a second stint with Manchester United. The star’s journey also included Sporting CP, where he was trained, Manchester United (first stint), Real Madrid — where he became the club’s all-time leading scorer and won four Champions League titles — and Juventus, where he added more domestic titles to his extensive trophy cabinet. Since arriving in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo has been the face of the internationalization of Saudi football, breaking scoring records and featuring in high-profile signings that have elevated the league to new audiences.
Looking ahead, Ronaldo’s participation in the 2026 World Cup will be watched with heightened anticipation. Will he be able to guide Portugal to an unprecedented title? Can he maintain his level of influence and effectiveness at 41 years old? The answers to these questions will be revealed on the pitches of the United States, Canada, and Mexico, in a World Cup that could be the last major international stage of one of football’s greatest legends. For now, the Portuguese captain continues to train and lead, determined to finish his career at the highest level and, who knows, to rewrite the history of national and world football.
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