Cristiano Ronaldo’s future in international football has been a topic of discussion lately, with many wondering if the Portuguese star will continue playing for his national team beyond the current European Championship. However, former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes that Ronaldo’s chances of starring for Portugal at the 2026 World Cup are slim.
Ferguson, who played a crucial role in shaping Ronaldo’s career, acknowledged the physical demands of the World Cup and how it may affect Ronaldo’s performance. He stated that football is becoming faster and more athletic, making it difficult for older players to compete at the highest level. Additionally, he mentioned that the space for central strikers is shrinking, which could further hinder Ronaldo’s impact.
Despite his doubts about Ronaldo’s World Cup prospects, Ferguson emphasized that the Portuguese forward is already one of the greatest players of all time. He argued that winning more titles would not significantly add to Ronaldo’s legacy, as he has already had a remarkable career. This sentiment reflects the recognition and respect that Ronaldo has garnered throughout his illustrious journey in football.
The Euros have not been smooth sailing for Ronaldo thus far. He has faced challenges, including a missed penalty in the last-16 clash against Slovenia. However, he managed to make amends during the penalty shootout, helping his team secure a victory. As Portugal progresses to the quarter-finals to face France, Ronaldo will undoubtedly be determined to prove his critics wrong and demonstrate his prowess against formidable opponents like Kylian Mbappe.
Despite his overall impact on the pitch, Ronaldo has yet to find the back of the net in this summer’s tournament. This goal drought is unexpected from a player of his caliber, but it highlights the unpredictable nature of football and the challenges even the best players face. Nonetheless, Ronaldo’s hunger for success and his desire to perform at the highest level will likely fuel him to push harder and break this dry spell.
As the Euros continue and the World Cup approaches, all eyes will be on Ronaldo and his future in international football. While Ferguson may have doubts about his prospects, it is undeniable that Ronaldo’s legacy is already firmly established. Whether he decides to compete in the 2026 World Cup or not, Ronaldo’s impact on the sport will be remembered for years to come.