Former Portugal midfielder Nuno Ricardo de Oliveira Ribeiro has backed Cristiano Ronaldo to feature at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the veteran forward still plays a vital role for the Portuguese national team despite his age.
Speaking in an interview with Flash Score, Maniche said Ronaldo’s experience, leadership, and influence on opponents make him indispensable to Portugal. He argued that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner should continue representing his country as long as he maintains the desire and ambition to play.
Maniche acknowledged that the 41-year-old no longer possesses the same physical strength he had two decades ago but stressed that Ronaldo still creates opportunities for teammates and remains a major threat to opposing defences. He also criticised what he described as unfair criticism directed at the Al-Nassr forward.
According to the former midfielder, there is currently no striker better suited to lead Portugal’s attack than Ronaldo. He added that while the final decision rests with the national team coach, Ronaldo continues to serve as a key reference point for the squad.
Ronaldo, football’s all-time leading scorer with 973 goals for club and country, is set to lead Portugal in their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign. Portugal will open their Group K fixtures against DR Congo on June 16 in Houston, with Uzbekistan and Colombia also in the group.
