‘There’s a reason why Cristiano Ronaldo is in Saudi Arabia’ – All-time great becomes a ‘problem’ for Portugal as 39-year-old extends career towards 2026 World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo has become a “problem” for Portugal, says Gabriel Agbonlahor, with the all-time great told “there’s a reason he’s in Saudi Arabia”.

• • WHAT HAPPENED?

    The five-time Ballon d’Or winner bid farewell to European football following his dramatic release by Manchester United in November 2022. After gracing the World Cup finals in Qatar, CR7 opted to spread his wings and head for the Middle East.

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      THE BIGGER PICTURE

      Ronaldo has remained a prolific presence for Al-Nassr – hitting 50 goals for them last season – but posted a blank on Euro 2024 duty with his country. Rather than announce his international retirement at the end of that event, the 39-year-old has vowed to play on – making more history when reaching 900 career goals.

       

    • • Getty

        THE BIGGER PICTURE

        Ronaldo has remained a prolific presence for Al-Nassr – hitting 50 goals for them last season – but posted a blank on Euro 2024 duty with his country. Rather than announce his international retirement at the end of that event, the 39-year-old has vowed to play on – making more history when reaching 900 career goals.

        WHAT NEXT?

        Ronaldo has offered no indication that he will be hanging up his boots any time soon, as he looks to reach 1,000 goals. The expectation is that he will play on to the 2026 World Cup finals, allowing him to add to historic international hauls of 213 caps and 131 goals.