Germany legend Jurgen Klinsmann has expressed confidence that Cristiano Ronaldo might win his first FIFA World Cup in 2026, potentially equaling Lionel Messi’s achievement in the tournament. This prediction comes after Ronaldo’s standout performance in Portugal’s recent UEFA Nations League semi-final.
On May 4, 2023, Ronaldo, who is now 40, scored the decisive goal in Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Germany at the Allianz Arena in Munich. The match also saw goals from Germany’s Florian Wirtz and Portugal’s Francisco Conceicao. Klinsmann praised Ronaldo’s leadership and contribution on the pitch following the game.
Jurgen Klinsmann praises Ronaldo’s leadership and skill at 40
Klinsmann acknowledged Ronaldo’s remarkable form despite his age, highlighting how the forward continues to serve his team effectively. The former Bayern Munich star said,
“This is simply exceptional. What he is producing as a 40-year old… it seems he is not getting old at all. He put himself in the service of the team, he came back, he helped out, he tried to connect to his team-mates. This is a real leader. And once he is in the box, he is still one of the best finishers in the game. He can make a difference anytime but it is his attitude that makes a huge difference.”
—Jurgen Klinsmann, Former Germany player and coach
Klinsmann also highlighted Ronaldo’s potential to continue performing at a high level through to the next World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. He noted the example of Messi, who capitalized on a late career opportunity to shine in Qatar.
“If he keeps his teammates positive, his work to the team, there is no doubt that he can still play on till the next year’s World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. We saw Messi ready to cash in at a later stage of his career in Qatar. Maybe he can do it next year, this is an exceptional Portugal team.”
—Jurgen Klinsmann, Former Germany player and coach
Throughout his career, Ronaldo has amassed 137 goals in 220 appearances for Portugal, underscoring his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
Ronaldo declines opportunity to face Messi in FIFA Club World Cup
Despite his impressive form, Ronaldo is reportedly not interested in playing in Brazil’s upcoming FIFA Club World Cup. His contract with Al-Nassr is expected to expire in June, and speculation around his next club continues to build.
Fluminense president Mario Bittencourt recently revealed he contacted Ronaldo’s agent, Jorge Mendes, regarding the player’s availability for the Club World Cup. Bittencourt shared at a press conference,
“I have a relationship with Jorge Mendes. Not a very close one but, if I call him, he answers. I asked him if there was any chance of Cristiano playing in the Club World Cup. He was very clear in telling me that he’s not interested in playing in Brazil for now.”
—Mario Bittencourt, Fluminense president
If Ronaldo were to reconsider and join Fluminense, he would participate in the tournament as part of the Group F squad, while Messi is confirmed to compete with Inter Miami in Group A. This potential face-off would have added another chapter to the long-standing rivalry between the two stars.
What Ronaldo’s potential World Cup success would mean
Should Ronaldo match Messi’s World Cup triumph in 2026, it would represent a historic moment in football, underlining the longevity and resilience of both players. Their parallel careers showcase sustained excellence at the highest level. For Portugal, winning the World Cup would be a defining achievement, consolidating their place among football’s elite nations.
The upcoming World Cup in North America offers Ronaldo a unique platform to add a crowning jewel to his illustrious career, with Klinsmann’s belief reinforcing the striker’s continuing influence and inspiring leadership.