Was Cristiano Ronaldo named in Portugal's World Cup 2026 squad?

Ronaldo recently won the Nations League with Portugal!

One of the greatest to ever play this game of football, Cristiano Ronaldo, has led the Portugal national team for several decades and in what could be his last dance, there is one question that is constantly being asked right now: “Will Cristiano Ronaldo be included in Portugal’s World Cup squad?”

Portugal gaffer Roberto Martinez has time and again emphasised that Cristiano Ronaldo is hungry and raring to go all guns blazing even at 41. He played a crucial role in helping Portugal win the UEFA Nations League after defeating Spain in the Finals.

But there have been doubts over his physical fitness, injury and suspension concerns.

Amid debate of whether Portugal should get rid of putting Ronaldo as the central focus, we take a look and find out whether Ronaldo is likely to be included in Roberto Martinez’s Portugal squad, scheduled to be announced in a few hours.

Ronaldo is the first male player to score in five different FIFA World Cups since 2006

Playing at the FIFA World Cup is a dream for every aspiring footballer on this planet, and even some of the greatest players like George Best, Alfredo Di Stéfano and Eric Cantona failed to represent their countries at the World Cup.

But since 2006, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have been among the first players in history to reach an unprecedented six World Cup tournaments. That represents longevity, and having Ronaldo in the team adds psychological pressure on the opponent team.

Ronaldo is still in his prime form at 41

With every match, Ronaldo keeps proving that age is just a number and that he is ageing like a fine wine. In the 2025-26 season, he recorded 26 goals in 29 league appearances for Al-Nassr. For Portugal, he scored 25 goals in 30 appearances under Martinez.

Moreover, he is in fantastic form in club competitions as Al Nassr are one of the favourites to win the Saudi Pro League, and the Knights of Najd also made it to the finals of the prestigious AFC Champions League 2, but eventually fell short after Japanese side Gamba Osaka triumphed.

Was Cristiano Ronaldo named in Portugal’s World Cup 2026 squad?

Yes, he has been included in the final squad and will captain his side.

It is true that after the incident in the World Cup qualifiers, Ronaldo was handed a one-match ban. But he will serve the suspension in the friendlies before the tournament.

But there’s no slightest hesitation in admitting that Ronaldo is a big match player. When Portugal plays against big teams like France, Argentina, England and Spain, Roberto Martinez will need him like never before, and he has shown that he can win games with just his individual brilliance.

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