William Gallas has backed Cristiano Ronaldo to continue playing at least until 41 and appear at the 2026 World Cup.
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Gallas backs Ronaldo to play in 2026 World CupCited Pepe's example to prove his pointAl-Nassr star to appear in record sixth European ChampionshipWHAT HAPPENED?
The Al-Nassr star is all set to feature in the European Championship for a record sixth time in the current edition of the tournament. While many consider Euro 2024 to be the player's last dance for Portugal, former Premier League star William Gallas believes that Ronaldo is likely to continue playing for hos country beyond the continental competition this year.
AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
The ex-France international cited Ronaldo's team-mate Pepe's example with the defender set to become the oldest player to appear at Euro 2024 at 41. Gallas believes that like Pepe, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid player will continue playing until the same age and expects him to feature for his national team at the 2026 World Cup in North America.
WHAT WILLIAM GALLAS SAID
Speaking to , Ronaldo's former Premier League rival Gallas, who played for both Chelsea and Arsenal, said: "I think he will. He will be 41 when the next World Cup comes around, but, if you look at the shape that he’s in and the goals that he’s scoring, then I don’t see why he won’t be targeting that as well. Look at Pepe. He’s 41 and playing at this tournament – he will be the oldest ever player to appear at a European Championships. Ronaldo will be looking at his inclusion and will think that he can do exactly the same thing. This tournament won’t be the last dance for Ronaldo – his last dance will be at the World Cup in two year’s time."
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR RONALDO?
The star forward will be next seen in action on Tuesday night as Roberto Martinez's side begin their Euro 2024 journey against the Czech Republic.