Cristiano Ronaldo is heading into his sixth FIFA World Cup, but Roberto Martinez is not ready to suggest this is definitely the end. The Portugal national team manager has refused to rule out the idea of Ronaldo featuring again in 2030, even though the forward would be 45 by then.
It is a surprising stance, but also one that fits Ronaldo’s career. He has spent years breaking expectations around age and longevity, and Martinez clearly is not closing the door on another remarkable chapter just yet.
When asked if Ronaldo could make it to another world cup in a recent interview, Martinez said, “He will fight for it. I think no one should doubt that, at least he has earned that right. Don't think that this isn't a topic of discussion and conversation within the coaching staff, because we would love to be able to pass on Cristiano Ronaldo's example to all young footballers in Portugal.”
Portugal head into the tournament with Ronaldo once again leading the group, even at 41. This will be his sixth appearance on the World Cup stage, which says everything about his longevity and obsession with staying at the top. The only thing missing from his career is the trophy itself, and that is what makes this tournament so important.
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But Portugal are not relying on nostalgia. This squad is loaded. Roberto Martinez has attacking options like Rafael Leão, Pedro Neto, João Félix, Gonçalo Ramos and Francisco Conceição, while the midfield has serious control through Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Vitinha and João Neves. At the back, Rúben Dias, Nuno Mendes and João Cancelo give the team real balance.
Portugal also carry emotion into the tournament, with Martinez paying tribute to Diogo Jota and calling his spirit part of the squad.
Their group includes Democratic Republic of Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia, so expectations will be high from the start. For Ronaldo, the mission is simple: one last serious push at the biggest prize in soccer.
Then again, with Martinez refusing to rule out 2030, maybe “last” is still a dangerous word to use with Ronaldo.
