Sir Alex Ferguson makes bold prediction on Cristiano Ronaldo's international future after Euro 2024
- Ferguson discusses Ronaldo's future with Portugal
- The 82-year-old believes the game is becoming too quick for the forward
- Ronaldo worked under Ferguson from 2003 to 2009 at Man Utd
Manchester United legend Sir Alex Ferguson believes Euro 2024 may be Cristiano Ronaldo's final international tournament as the 39-year-old will soon succumb to the physical demands of playing at an advanced age.
Though Portugal have made it to the quarter-finals of this summer's tournament, Ronaldo's time in Germany has been anything but smooth. The 39-year-old was left in tears after seeing a recent penalty saved and has been accused of dragging his side down - similar to the narrative towards the end of his second spell with United.
Manager of Ronaldo for six seasons at United, Ferguson has confidently ruled out the player's participation in the 2026 World Cup.
Speaking to SPORT BILD, the 82-year-old said: "I can't image that [Ronaldo will play in 2026].
"Football will become even faster and more athletic in the coming years. In addition, the space for central strikers will become increasingly smaller.
"In contrast to defenders, it is more difficult for strikers to play at the highest level when they are older.
"One or two more titles would not mean much to him. He has [already] had a unique career. He's one of the greatest of all time"
In a reflective moment earlier this week, after Portugal's penalty shoot-out win against Slovenia, Ronaldo told RTP Desporto: "Without a doubt it's the last Euro [for me], of course it is.
"But I'm not emotional about that. I'm moved by everything that football entails, by the enthusiasm I have for the game, the enthusiasm I see in the fans, having my family here, people's passion... it's not about leaving the world of football. What else is there for me to do or win?"
"The most important thing about the journey I've been on is the enthusiasm I still have for being here.
"It's 20 years representing and playing with the national team, bringing joy to people, to the family, my children, that is what motivates me most."
Speaking on his missed spot kick against Slovenia, Ronaldo added: "It's football. Those who fail are those who try, too. I will always do my best for this shirt, whether I fail or not.
"As you saw, I missed the penalty but I wanted to be the first to score [in the penalty shoot-out] because you have to take responsibility when the team has to. You can't be afraid, I've never been afraid to face things head on, sometimes I get it right, sometimes I don't, but giving up is something you'll never hear from my name."
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