Bruno Fernandes gives his verdict on Cristiano Ronaldo’s hopes of playing at World Cup 2026 after Portugal superstar nets 900th goal
Bruno Fernandes says Cristiano Ronaldo is capable of playing at the 2026 World Cup – but it is up to the 39-year-old whether he wants to or not.
- Ronaldo brings up 900th goal
- Bruno gives verdict on veteran’s future
- Questions mount if Ronaldo will make next World Cup
WHAT HAPPENED?
Following Ronaldo’s 900th career goal, which came in Portugal’s 2-1 Nations League win over Croatia, Manchester United star Fernandes was asked about the 39-year-old’s future. Questions have been asked whether the Al-Nassr man will still be playing at the next World Cup when he will be 41. Now, Fernandes has had his say on the matter.
WHAT BRUNO FERNANDES SAID
Fernandes said: “It’s his [Ronaldo’s] decision and it depends on whether he feels good and at a high level. We know that he is capable of reaching a certain age with this great level of demand, but it is up to him to decide and I am sure that he will decide in favour of his wellbeing and the national team.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Ronaldo had a poor Euro 2024 campaign, with many saying he was hindering his Portugal side in the tournament. He does not appear to be too fussed about playing in the next World Cup, however.
After the Croatia win, he said: “Portugal winning a Euros is equivalent to a World Cup. I’ve already won two trophies (Euro 2016 and 2019 Nations League) for Portugal that I really wanted.
“I’m not motivated by that [the World Cup]. I’m motivated to enjoy football and records appear in a natural way. ‘I don’t chase records, they’re the ones who chase me.”
WHAT NEXT?
While speculation will continue to mount over Ronaldo’s future, with the former Real Madrid man contracted with Al-Nassr until 2025, his Portugal team take on Scotland in their next Nations League match on Sunday.
