Cristiano Ronaldo still 'hungry to be the best' but 'doesn't have long-term goals' anymore, claims Portugal boss Roberto Martinez
Cristiano Ronaldo does not have “long-term goals” anymore, but Roberto Martinez says the Portuguese GOAT is still “hungry to be the best”.
- Evergreen frontman still going strong at 40
- Hoping to grace the 2026 World Cup finals
- International coach has full faith in GOAT
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Table of Contents
ToggleWHAT HAPPENED?
Having enjoyed a standing at the top of world football across two decades, five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo is reluctant to take any backwards steps despite now being 40 years of age. He remains a talismanic presence for his country and with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
Goals continue to flow for CR7 at a prolific rate, with another brace being bagged in a 5-0 victory for Portugal over Armenia in their latest 2026 World Cup qualifier. His record-setting tally of international efforts has been taken to 140 and counting.
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WHAT MARTINEZ SAID
There is the promise of more to come, with retirement seemingly still some way off. Martinez continues to find a prominent role for Ronaldo in his plans, with a born winner continuing to defy sporting logic.
Portugal boss Martinez has said of his skipper: “He lives day to day like a young player playing for the first time. The way he dedicates himself, the freshness he has every day. He's a winner. He's hungry to be the best.
“The World Cup? He's doing the best he can, he doesn't have long-term goals. He wants to be the best every day. His focus is on the day to day.”
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DID YOU KNOW?
Martinez added on Ronaldo remaining an inspiration to the next generation of talent in Portugal and millions of followers around the world: “I've already talked a lot about what he conveys, but these aren't aspects of the future, they're aspects of everyday life. What it means to wear the [Portugal] jersey is the captain's message in the locker room; it helps a lot.”
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