'Even at 42 he will always score goals, whether they are decisive I don't know': Former Portuguese player questions Cristiano Ronaldo's place for 2026 World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo is a football legend and him scoring goals has never been a problem for any of the teams he played in past or playing currently. But the fact that Ronaldo as player has also lost several trophies and World Cup being the biggest one of them has been an underlying fact with the veteran. Ronaldo celebrated his 40th birthday this year and uncertainty over his international career looms large.

Ronaldo who is currently playing in Saudi Pro League has been phenomenal playing for AL- Nassr. He has played a total of 26 matches in the league scoring 23 goals with 3 assists to his name. He is currently standing on a historic 933 goals , 67 goals shy from reaching the milestone of 1000 goals.

International retirement threat
While the legend is in his fag end he still has never publicly acknowledged or talked about his international retirement. He has 219 caps and 136 goals for Portugal. There are no doubts on him playing the prestigious and what could be his final FIFA World Cup. He instead is expected to lead the international side hoping to turn things and emerge victorious this time.

Luis Figo on Ronaldo
Former Portuguese forward Luis Figo has shared his two cents on the situation at a event in Madrid.

"He could be a starter [at the World Cup]. Decisive... we have to wait and see. But Cristiano is an example for the whole world in terms of availability, professionalism, talent," he said.

While he praised the 40 year old for his talent and grit he also talked about how his scoring is never an issue but how how decisive those goals are is a big talking point

“And he will always score goals, I think even at 40, even at 42, he will always score goals. Now, whether they are decisive goals, I don’t know, we have to wait and see. For us Portuguese, let’s hope they are always decisive," he added.

Portugal's only Hope

Portugal has never won a FIFA World Cup but if they manage to pull out their best game this time and secure qualification in finals, Ronaldo will become the first player to be featured in a sixth World Cup Finals. Portugal were knocked out in the quarter-finals last edition.

Ronaldo is currently eyeing for the 1000th goal which will take him atleast 2026 to turn dreams into reality.

“Guys, let’s enjoy the moment. I’m not chasing 1,000. If it happens, perfect. If it doesn’t happen, it doesn’t happen,” Ronaldo told reporters. “The moment is the most special thing, not what is going to come, you know. Enjoy the moment, and it was a great win—not because I scored, of course. I’m happy to score two goals against Al-Hilal, but the most important thing is to win the derby," he said recently.