Despite Cristiano Ronaldo's exceptional performance this season, both with the national team and his club, he has continued to lead his team to victory in various tournaments.

He consistently ranks among the top scorers and has scored more goals in a year than any other player, totaling an impressive 40 goals, all while continually breaking his own records.

When he announced his intention to participate in the 2026 World Cup, it caused quite a commotion.

Many fans hope to see Cristiano Ronaldo in the World Cup once more, but it's challenging to believe that a 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo at that time can still excel at the World Cup, let alone lead Portugal to victory.

If Cristiano Ronaldo does participate in the 2026 World Cup, he will make history as the first player in the football world to take part in six World Cup tournaments.

This achievement will be etched in the annals of history. Furthermore, his records for national team appearances and goals will likely remain unbroken by future generations, making him a true legend in the football world.

The Portuguese Football Federation expressed surprise at Cristiano Ronaldo's decision. It's hard to imagine that Cristiano Ronaldo can continue to stand out in the highly competitive Portuguese national team and be an indispensable member.

The Portuguese Football Federation's stance is not hard to comprehend. Rather than supporting Cristiano Ronaldo's continued participation in the World Cup, the FA is more focused on infusing new blood into the national team, allowing young players to shoulder more responsibility.

Nonetheless, for Portugal's manager, Roberto Martínez Gutiérrez, Cristiano Ronaldo's role in the national team remains irreplaceable. Perhaps, by 2026, this role will still be highly significant.

The Portuguese national team boasts plenty of talent, with many players representing major European clubs. However, due to the presence of these high-profile players, Cristiano Ronaldo's role in the national team becomes even more crucial.

Portugal needs a superstar like Cristiano Ronaldo to guide and inspire these confident and prominent players.

Having talent is advantageous, but playing without a leader can be challenging. Cristiano Ronaldo is the only player capable of leading the current Portuguese national team. While football emphasizes novelty, it also values the enduring spirit of determination.

Finding a great spiritual leader is not easy, and Cristiano Ronaldo's unwavering fighting spirit remains a significant source of motivation to propel Portugal forward. As long as Cristiano Ronaldo can step onto the field, he will continue to be the symbol of the Portuguese team.