Ex‑Brazil forward Ronaldo Nazário has taken a slight dig at Cristiano Ronaldo regarding his 2026 World Cup performance.
Speaking to the media, Ronaldo maintained that while Cristiano may still have the level to play in Saudi Arabia, competing at a World Cup is a different challenge entirely.
His statement:
Maybe he still has the level to play in Saudi Arabia, but to compete in a World Cup, we realize that it is much more difficult, the level is much higher. Despite our passion, our love of football and our desire to play forever, I think it is finally the body that decides for us.
Softfootball understands Cristiano Ronaldo could not deliver for Portugal at the 2026 World Cup, as Spain defeated Portugal 1–0 to advance to the quarterfinals.
