Sir Alex Ferguson provides honest opinion on Cristiano Ronaldo's potential availability for Portugal at the 2026 World Cup
Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson suggested that he expects Euro 2024 to be Cristiano Ronaldo's last major international tournament. The legendary Scotsman claimed that it is difficult for forwards to play later in their careers.
He said (via German outlet Sport Bild):
"I can’t imagine that [he'll play at the 2026 World Cup]. Football will become even faster and more athletic in the coming years. In addition, the space for central strikers will become increasingly smaller.
"In contrast to defenders, it is more difficult for strikers to play at the highest level when they are older."
The 39-year-old hasn't had a particularly memorable Euro 2024. He has played in all four of Portugal's games but has yet to find the back of the net. He had a particularly difficult moment against Slovenia in the Round of 16 as he was reduced to tears following a penalty miss in extra time. However, he scored in the penalty shootout as they won 3-0.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo has enjoyed a great relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson, making 292 appearances and registering 118 goals and 62 assists under him. The Scotsman played a major role in bringing the forward to Manchester United, where he established himself as one of the world's best before moving to Real Madrid. The Al-Nassr icon also said that the manager played a key role in his return to Old Trafford in 2021.
Meanwhile, the Portugal captain has made 29 total appearances in Euros, the most out of any player while scoring 14 goals and 8 assists, also record tallies. With his appearance against Georgia, he became the first European player to make 50 appearances in major tournaments.
Portugal star defends Cristiano Ronaldo after extra time penalty miss
Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa offered words of consolation to Cristiano Ronaldo after the side's penalty shootout victory over Slovenia in the Euro 2024. The 24-year-old appreciated the Al-Nassr superstar for his mentality in the game, saying (via press conference):
"We all felt we needed to keep believing -- myself and Cristiano, everybody makes mistakes, but the most important thing is what we do after these mistakes.
"We need to believe in ourselves and that's what we did. And now we're all very happy and all friends."
Ronaldo had a glorious chance from the spot to give the Selecao the lead in extra time but saw his effort thwarted by Jan Oblak. He kept his nerves later on in the shootout and scored.
Costa, meanwhile, emerged as Portugal's hero, saving three penalties on the trot. His antics ensured that Ronaldo's men advanced to the quarterfinals, where they will face France on July 5.