Will Cristiano Ronaldo be in Portugal's starting XI this summer at FIFA World Cup 2026?
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Ronaldo could be playing at his last World Cup.
Cristiano Ronaldo is aware that the FIFA World Cup 2026 may be his last opportunity to win the only significant trophy missing from his career. The final trophy to add to his impressive collection.
The 41-year-old five-time Ballon d’Or winner is nearing the end of his career, which has seen him earn multiple individual honours and lead Portugal to three major trophies—all on the continental stage.
With all eyes on him, Ronaldo will travel to North America with an incredibly talented team as the Seleção prepare for their seventh consecutive appearance in an attempt to win their first championship.
The current UEFA Nations League winners are paired alongside Colombia, Uzbekistan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo in World Cup Group K.
Will Cristiano Ronaldo be in the Portugal starting XI this summer at the FIFA World Cup?
Ronaldo is aware that he could be playing in his last World Cup. It will be his final shot at lifting the only trophy that has eluded him.
Roberto Martínez will have a big dilemma deciding the starting lineup. He has a few more options in the No. 9 position.
But that one area is likely preserved for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, although Martinez will also assess if Cristiano Ronaldo will be fit enough to start every game. Given his age, the coach will certainly manage his playing time and might give other strikers more minutes.
But no player is more experienced than the former Real Madrid star, who is set to play his sixth World Cup. Hence, Cristiano Ronaldo certainly won’t be in every starting lineup. But he will undoubtedly be in some of the starting XI to lead the national team in the World Cup.
Have the Portugal World Cup squad been announced?
Yes.
Is Ronaldo included in the squad?
Yes.
Which group are they in?
They are group K.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.