Ex-Portugal star Nuno Gomes highlights ‘most important’ ability Cristiano Ronaldo has to continue playing for country in 2030 World Cup

Former Portugal star Nuno Gomes has insisted that Cristiano Ronaldo's goal-scoring ability is the most important quality he brings to the pitch. He said the national team captain should play at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, though his speed has decreased.

Speaking to talkSPORT, Gomes said Ronaldo continues to be a role model for young players and should be praised for it. He believes that the final decision remains with national team manager Roberto Martinez, but believes that the 40-year-old should be in the squad next summer. He said:

"It's a difficult question. I think only him, or maybe not even him, knows the answer because I think he is doing year by year at this age. I think he's still fit to play. He's a really professional player and one of the players that we can point him as a example to follow? For the young generations. But of course he has his age and his capacity is reduced in some qualities, in speed for example. He's not the same Cristiano when he was 18 or 20, but he's still capable to score goals, and in football, it's the most important thing, to score goals and he's still scoring."

"Of course I think it also depends on the coach. Right now we have Roberto Martinez and I think he adapts the team, having him in the first 11 or not. So I think it will depend on his will, to play more or not. But probably I could tell that it could be his last World Cup. Even though we know that in four years we are hosting some games. And maybe it could be an opportunity to say goodbye at home."

Portugal have qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and will be in the group stages. Cristiano Ronaldo was set to miss the opening game, but his red card has since been suspended after an appeal.

Cristiano Ronaldo set to play at the FIFA World Cup one last time

Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his last edition of the tournament. He told the media that his age will be the key reason for his decision and said (via SportStar):

"Definitely, yes. I'm gonna be 41 years old and I think it will be the moment. Let's be honest, when I mean soon, it's probably one or two years, I'll still be at the game."

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi will create history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the only footballers to feature in six editions of the tournament.