Who dares to cross out Ronaldo's name?

Ronaldo is still the captain of the Portuguese team at this time. Photo: Reuters .

Ronaldo has 217 caps for the national team and scored 135 goals, breaking all records at the international level. And with his impressive form at Al Nassr, CR7 can completely extend his international career at least until the 2026 World Cup.

The question is when will Ronaldo stop? And who has the courage to tell this legend that his time is up?

Former England international Chris Waddle, who played into his 40s, believes Ronaldo is still of great value to the national team. "It's a difficult situation, especially for Roberto Martinez," Waddle said. "Ronaldo is a legend, a great player. If he's still better than the others, if he's still the best option up front, then let him play."

Waddle also highlighted the fact that Portugal have never produced a truly outstanding centre-forward. Despite having a number of talented midfielders and a solid defence, the No. 9 position has always been a problem. And in the absence of a standout centre-forward, Ronaldo remains the most likely option.

With his strong personality and endless passion for playing football, Ronaldo will probably be the one to decide when to leave the team, not coach Martinez. Waddle believes that is what gives coaches a headache.

"Because Ronaldo is a legend, no one dares to say to him 'I'm not going to pick you anymore'. They are worried that removing one of the greatest players in history will cause a negative reaction," Waddle concluded.

Ronaldo is aiming for a record of 1,000 goals and playing for Portugal at the 2026 World Cup. Photo: Reuters .

More than anyone else, CR7 wants not only to play but also to break more records. He aims to score 1,000 goals in his career and continue to increase his number of appearances for the team. When Portugal face Denmark in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Nations League this month, Ronaldo will almost certainly continue to wear the captain's armband, becoming the inspiration for the team.

"The former MU striker is not like normal players. When others retire, he still gives his all on the field. When many people think Ronaldo should stop, he proves the opposite," Goal commented.

Sooner or later, Portugal will have to find a successor to CR7. But until there is a replacement, Ronaldo will be the team's immortal legend. And perhaps, he will be the one to decide when the journey ends.

Time may cause other players to decline, but for Ronaldo, it is just another challenge to conquer. When no player is capable of replacing him, who can dare to cross Ronaldo's name off?

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