Roberto Martinez: Cristiano Ronaldo could be in Portugal’s 2030 World Cup plans

Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has left the door open to the possibility that Cristiano Ronaldo could still be available for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, saying “no one should doubt it” and praising the forward’s hunger and longevity. The remarks came during an interview with El Larguero and follow Martinez’s decision to include Ronaldo in Portugal’s current World Cup squad — a selection the coach says is based on the player’s present form rather than a tribute to his past achievements.

Why it matters — longevity, records and Portugal’s captaincy

Martinez’s comments matter because they frame Ronaldo’s international future as dependent on continued performance and physical upkeep rather than sentiment. If Ronaldo were to remain part of Portugal’s plans through 2030 he would approach the tournament at around 45 years of age, putting him within reach of the all-time record for oldest World Cup appearance held by Egypt goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary (45 years, 161 days). Martinez emphasised psychological factors and professional habits as drivers of the striker’s extended career.

What Martinez said about Ronaldo’s form and mindset

According to the source, Martinez highlighted multiple reasons behind Ronaldo’s sustained level: genetics, meticulous body care and, crucially, a relentless psychological hunger. Martinez noted that Ronaldo does not rest on past successes — whether collective or individual — and that this continuous drive helps explain his longevity. The coach also stressed that Ronaldo’s selection for the upcoming World Cup is earned on current merit: Martinez pointed to the striker’s recent scoring return as justification for his place in the squad.

• Martinez left the possibility open that Ronaldo could play at the 2030 World Cup, saying “no one should doubt it.”
• He praised Ronaldo’s longevity and described hunger and mentality as central to his continued performance.
• Martinez cited Ronaldo’s recent scoring form, reported as 25 goals in his last 30 matches, as evidence that his selection is based on present-day merit.
• If Ronaldo plays in 2030 he would be close to, or could surpass, the oldest-player World Cup appearance record held by Essam El-Hadary.

Context: records and the 2030 tournament host nations

The 2030 World Cup will be jointly hosted by Spain, Portugal and Morocco. If Ronaldo extended his international career to 2030 and Portugal enjoyed a deep run in the tournament, the forward would be in position to challenge the all-time oldest-player record. Martinez’s comments framed that possibility in terms of achievement earned through ongoing performance and preparation rather than sentiment.

Team selection and performance implications

Martinez stressed that Ronaldo is treated the same as other players in squad selection terms — his status as a national icon does not exempt him from performance expectations. The coach’s public backing of Ronaldo’s present form sends a clear message that selection will remain performance-based, with the captain expected to match the demands placed on any squad member.

What happens next: Martinez and the Portugal staff will continue to assess Ronaldo’s fitness and output as international and club calendars unfold. Any definitive statement about Ronaldo’s presence at the 2030 World Cup would require confirmation nearer the tournament, subject to the player’s form, fitness and availability.