Former Arsenal midfielder Gilberto Silva believes that Cristiano Ronaldo’s presence in the Portugal squad will be a massive boost for their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign. At 40 years old, Ronaldo is set to appear in his sixth World Cup next summer, showcasing his remarkable longevity in the sport.
Silva praised Ronaldo’s mentality, highlighting the unique qualities that the Al-Nassr superstar brings to the Portuguese team. Despite not being as fast as he once was, Ronaldo has adapted his style of play to continue scoring goals consistently, impressing Silva with his ability to find solutions on the pitch.
The Brazilian World Cup winner emphasized Ronaldo’s leadership skills, noting how he inspires and pushes his teammates to achieve their best. Silva believes that having Ronaldo in the squad is crucial for Portugal, as his presence can elevate the performance of every player and instill a belief in their capabilities.
Although Ronaldo has won numerous trophies throughout his career, including the UEFA European Championship and UEFA Nations League with Portugal, a World Cup triumph has eluded him so far. With 223 caps and 141 goals for his country, Ronaldo remains a key figure in international football and a driving force for the Portuguese national team.
In a separate development, Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister weighed in on the eternal debate between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. The Argentine player dismissed the notion of a rivalry between the two superstars, stating that Messi’s World Cup victory with Argentina settled any argument about who is the greatest of all time.
Mac Allister expressed his respect for Ronaldo, acknowledging him as the second-best player in the world. However, he firmly believes that Messi’s unparalleled talent and achievements make him the ultimate footballer, with no one else coming close to his level of excellence.
Ronaldo and Messi’s longstanding rivalry has captivated football fans worldwide for nearly two decades, with the duo winning a combined total of 13 Ballon d’Or awards. Their consistent dominance at the highest level of the sport has solidified their status as legends in the game.
As the football world eagerly anticipates the FIFA World Cup 2026, the presence of Cristiano Ronaldo in the Portugal squad adds an extra layer of excitement and anticipation. With his leadership, goal-scoring prowess, and unwavering determination, Ronaldo continues to be a formidable force on the international stage, inspiring his teammates and fans alike.
