The Portuguese superstar becomes the first player ever named to six World Cup squads, cementing his legendary status.
Cristiano Ronaldo has etched his name deeper into football folklore after Portugal coach Roberto Martínez included the 39-year-old icon in the squad for the upcoming World Cup. The Al-Nassr striker becomes the first player in history to be selected for six World Cup tournaments, surpassing the previous record of five appearances.
The Portugal captain's inclusion comes despite questions about his form and role in the national setup. Ronaldo's move to Saudi Arabia's Pro League has kept him sharp and scoring, silencing critics who doubted whether he could maintain elite performance levels well into his late thirties.
Portugal will be among the tournament favorites, boasting a golden generation that includes Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and rising stars like Rafael Leão. The squad's depth mirrors the global talent pool that increasingly sees African-born players choosing European nations, highlighting the continent's growing influence on world football.
For Ronaldo, this World Cup represents potentially his final chance to capture the one major trophy that has eluded him throughout his illustrious career. The tournament promises to showcase not just his individual pursuit of glory, but also the evolving dynamics of international football in an increasingly connected world.
