Former Manchester United star Kleberson shared his take on what Cristiano Ronaldo must be thinking ahead of appearing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite crossing 40 years, the legendary Portuguese is expected to lead his team in the tournament this summer.
Cristiano Ronaldo has shown no signs of slowing down despite being at the twilight of his career. The legendary Portuguese is set to represent his side for the sixth time in the FIFA World Cup, which is expected to be his final appearance. Ronaldo is also the first player in men's football to reach the 900-goal milestone, with him aiming to hit 1000 before retirement. The superstar is often lauded for his work ethic and hardwork throughout his career.
In an interview with GOAL, Cristiano Ronaldo's former Manchester United teammate Kleberson opened up about what the Portuguese must be thinking ahead of the World Cup. He said:
"Inside of him he probably feels ‘gosh, I have to win the World Cup, I can’t finish my career like this’. He has to work hard. It’s not just him, it’s other players. Neymar also is probably thinking ‘Messi has a World Cup, I don’t’. [Erling] Haaland as well, he might not get a World Cup. It’s inside players, inside these top players."
He added:
"The World Cup is sometimes fair, sometimes unfair. I believe those guys look at me and think ‘oh my gosh, I can’t believe Kleberson has a World Cup and I haven’t!’ I don’t have five Ballons’ d’Or, but I have won the World Cup!"
Kleberson notably won the FIFA World Cup with Brazil in 2002. Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo has yet to win it with Portugal. However, the legendary forward has been pivotal in bringing international glory to his country, having won the 2016 Euro and the UEFA Nations League twice in 2019 and 2025.
Kleberson claims Cristiano Ronaldo can play until he is 50 if he wants
Ronaldo - Source: Getty
In his aforementioned interview with GOAL, Kleberson also spoke highly of Cristiano Ronaldo's mentality, recalling his time playing with him at Manchester United. The two shared the pitch 17 times at the club during Ronaldo's first stint (2003-2009). The Brazilian said:
"I met him when he was 17/18 years old, in 2003. We talked a lot because we wanted to speak Portuguese. We could see the things that he wanted in his life, and he hasn’t changed that. He is still the same. If there is something that Cristiano Ronaldo has, it is mental strength. His mentality is so powerful. Then he takes care of himself a lot - his body, the way he plays."
He added:
"When you watch him now, he is not like Cristiano of years ago, but he still has an impact. (...) If he wants to play at 50, he can do it! He’s in great shape."
Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will be his final international tournament with Portugal. However, his contract with Al-Nassr runs until 2027. It remains to be seen when the Portuguese hangs up his boots, as he's still among the best players in the world.