Cristiano Ronaldo’s journey with Portugal began in front of just 8,000 spectators on a worn-out pitch in Chaves in August 2003.
More than two decades later, the football icon is preparing for what he has confirmed will be the final World Cup of an extraordinary international career.
At 41, Ronaldo is set to become one of only three players in history to feature at six FIFA World Cups, joining Argentina legend Lionel Messi and Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa. Yet as Portugal head into the 2026 tournament, the debate surrounding their captain has never been more intense.
Ronaldo remains international football’s all-time leading scorer with 143 goals and has long been credited with transforming Portuguese football. His influence helped elevate the national team’s ambitions and contributed to a generation that now believes it can compete with the world’s best.
Many within Portuguese football still view his presence as invaluable.
Former Portugal international Abel Xavier believes Ronaldo’s experience and mentality could prove decisive on football’s biggest stage. Former goalkeeper Ricardo, who played alongside Ronaldo on his international debut and now works with the national team, insists the veteran forward remains a major threat despite advancing age.
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has repeatedly defended his captain against criticism. The Spaniard points to Ronaldo’s remarkable return of 25 goals in his last 31 appearances for Portugal and argues that his selection is based on current performances rather than past achievements.
However, not everyone is convinced.
Former Portugal star Antonio Simoes has questioned Ronaldo’s role in the team, while several pundits have argued that Portugal may benefit from building around a younger generation of attacking talent.
The debate intensified after Portugal recorded some of their most dominant victories under Martinez without Ronaldo in the lineup. A 9-0 victory over Luxembourg in 2023 and a 9-1 win against Armenia last year reignited discussion about whether the national team performs more freely in his absence.
Critics acknowledge Ronaldo’s legendary status but argue that a team hoping to win the World Cup should focus on the future rather than the past.
Martinez has consistently dismissed such suggestions, maintaining that Ronaldo remains one of Portugal’s most important players both on and off the pitch.
Away from the field, the Portuguese Football Federation is already preparing for life after its biggest star. Ronaldo’s influence on Portuguese football extends far beyond goals and trophies, with federation president Pedro Proenca recently acknowledging that the brands of Cristiano Ronaldo and Portuguese football have become closely linked.
Despite concerns about the future, federation officials insist the transition after Ronaldo retires will happen naturally.
For now, though, retirement can wait.
Portugal’s opening World Cup match against DR Congo on 17 June will mark the start of Ronaldo’s final attempt to win the one major trophy missing from his glittering career.
He has scored at each of his previous five World Cups and sits just one goal behind Eusebio’s Portuguese World Cup scoring record. But personal milestones are unlikely to be his main focus.
After redefining what Portugal believes is possible, Ronaldo’s last mission is clear: lead his country to a first-ever World Cup title and bring an unforgettable international career to the perfect conclusion.
