FIFA World Cup 2026 — Cristiano Ronaldo as hungry as ever, says Portuguese coach Roberto Martinez

Cristiano Ronaldo’s sixth and likely final World Cup will be the Portugal great’s first since he left Europe to play in Saudi Arabia.

The surprise move at the end of 2022 shocked many in the world and led to widespread doubts over whether his form would be affected by lower-level competition.

But Ronaldo, who turned 41 in February, has dismissed any idea of ​​a dip in performance at next month’s showcase event. And to prove his point, the goals kept coming, for both Al Nassr and Portugal.

Portuguese coach Roberto Martínez said Ronaldo is as hungry as ever and shows no signs the star striker has slowed down following his move to Saudi Arabia.

“He continues to perform, and he continues to show his value, and he continues to show that he is important to the national team,” Martínez said. «It’s very remarkable to have that hunger when you’ve won everything in the game. And that doesn’t change the fact that to play in the national team you have to be someone who can help the team now and not with what you’ve done in the past.»

Ronaldo and his old rival Lionel Messi are about to reach the milestone of playing in six World Cups. Ronaldo is the all-time leader in appearances (226) and goals (143) for a men’s national team. He is also the only man to have scored in five World Cups.

«Even though he is the captain, even though he has probably achieved what no other player in world football has achieved, which is the number of appearances for the national team, more than 225 appearances. Just with that number it is unique what he brings, but I think he has the same demands as any other player in the national team,» Martínez said.

(with input from The Associated Press)

Published on May 13, 2026