¿Cristiano Ronaldo en la Copa Mundial del 2030? El guiño de su entrenador a la estrella de Portugal
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Portugal's coach Roberto Martínez suggested Cristiano Ronaldo could play in the 2030 World Cup at age 45.
- Martínez praised Ronaldo's genetic makeup, work ethic, and unwavering hunger as keys to his longevity.
- Ronaldo is preparing for his sixth World Cup in 2026, with Portugal set to play friendlies against Chile and Nigeria.
Portugal's national team coach, Roberto Martínez, has opened the door to an astonishing possibility: Cristiano Ronaldo playing in the 2030 World Cup at the age of 45.
Speaking to Spanish radio station Cadena SER, Martínez discussed Portugal's aspirations for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, where they are grouped with Colombia, Uzbekistan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The team will play friendlies against Chile and Nigeria to finalize their squad for the tournament.
He will fight for it, come on. I don't think anyone should doubt him, at least he has earned that.
While the 2026 World Cup is widely expected to be Ronaldo's last, Martínez believes the Portuguese superstar's dedication could see him continue at the highest level. "He will fight for it, come on. I don't think anyone should doubt him, at least he has earned that," Martínez stated, emphasizing Ronaldo's genetic advantages, rigorous training, and psychological drive.
Martínez highlighted Ronaldo's "hunger" as his most significant asset, noting that the player's motivation remains undimmed regardless of past achievements. "His secret is not what he eats, it is the hunger he has. Whatever he wins, the next day he has the same hunger to improve. That objective allows for longevity," the coach added. This relentless pursuit of improvement, combined with years of dedicated physical care, could indeed allow Ronaldo to defy age and participate in a record-extending World Cup.
His secret is not what he eats, it is the hunger he has. Whatever he wins, the next day he has the same hunger to improve. That objective allows for longevity.
Originally published by Prensa Libre. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.