Cristiano Ronaldo, the Al-Nassr superstar, is poised to make history by featuring in the European Championship for a record sixth time in the upcoming edition of the tournament.
While many fans and analysts view Euro 2024 as the swan song for Ronaldo’s international career with Portugal, former Premier League defender William Gallas holds a different perspective.
Gallas, an ex-France international who played for both Chelsea and Arsenal, believes Ronaldo will continue to represent his country beyond this year’s continental competition.
Gallas draws a parallel to Ronaldo’s teammate, Pepe, who is set to become the oldest player ever to participate in a European Championship at the age of 41.
He suggests that Ronaldo, with his incredible fitness and goal-scoring prowess, is likely to follow in Pepe’s footsteps and extend his international career until he is at least 41. This would position Ronaldo to potentially play in the 2026 World Cup in North America.
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In an interview with Prime Casino, Gallas expressed his confidence in Ronaldo’s longevity. He remarked,
“I think he will. He will be 41 when the next World Cup comes around, but if you look at the shape that he’s in and the goals that he’s scoring, then I don’t see why he won’t be targeting that as well. Look at Pepe.”
“He’s 41 and playing at this tournament – he will be the oldest ever player to appear at a European Championship. Ronaldo will be looking at his inclusion and will think that he can do exactly the same thing. This tournament won’t be the last dance for Ronaldo – his last dance will be at the World Cup in two years’ time.”
Ronaldo’s next challenge comes on Tuesday night when he joins Roberto Martinez’s side to kick off their Euro 2024 campaign against the Czech Republic.
As the football world watches, many will be eager to see if Ronaldo can defy age and continue his illustrious career on the international stage, aiming for one last grand performance at the 2026 World Cup.