Recently, while speaking to reporters, Ronaldinho cited Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal’s current generation and said that he will support Portugal if Brazil fails to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Portugal will open Group K play against DR Congo on June 17, followed by Uzbekistan on June 23 and Colombia on June 28. Brazil, led by Carlo Ancelotti, opens Group C against Morocco. Ronaldinho, retired since 2018, remains active through global appearances and media projects.
Ronaldinho sent a powerful message to Cristiano ronaldo and portugal
Ronaldinho and Cristiano Ronaldo. Image via: Getty Images
Speaking to beIN SPORTS, Ronaldinho was asked which country he would support if Brazil failed to win the World Cup.He said, “First of all, I hope Brazil wins it. This is my country and that will never change. But if Brazil can’t do it, I would probably choose Portugal.”The former Ballon d’Or winner pointed to Portugal’s continued success and competitive pedigree. Ronaldinho praised the country’s football culture and highlighted how close the team has come to major international glory in recent years.Cristiano Ronaldo was at the center of that answer.Ronaldinho said, “Cristiano is one of the greatest players football has ever seen.” “His dedication, discipline and consistency over the years deserves the utmost respect.”When asked if he would like Ronaldo to win the World Cup, he went one step further.“It will be very special for football to see Portugal win the FIFA World Cup and to see Cristiano complete his football story on the biggest stage.”
Portugal’s World Cup ambitions live up to Ronaldinho’s praise
Portugal begin their Group K campaign against DR Congo on 17 June, before facing Uzbekistan on 23 June and Colombia on 28 June. Roberto Martínez’s side are entering the tournament on the back of friendly wins over Chile, Nigeria and the United States.
The roster features established stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Ruben Dias and Diogo Costa alongside a young core that includes Vitinha, Nuno Mendes, Joao Neves, Pedro Neto and Rafael Leao. Four members of the team recently helped Paris Saint-Germain clinch consecutive UEFA Champions League titles.ESPN analyst James Tyler recently argued that Ronaldo’s role could become Portugal’s biggest tactical dilemma. Fernandes scored 29 goals and 26 assists in 88 matches, while Ronaldo arrived after scoring 28 goals in 30 matches for Al-Nassr during the 2025–26 season.Meanwhile, Brazil begins Group C play against Morocco under Ancelotti. Neymar is not available for the opener, while Rodrygo, Eder Militao, Estevao and Wesley are also absent due to injury.
Away from the field, Ronaldinho holds a unique position in football. Since retiring in 2018, the 2002 World Cup winner has remained active through exhibition matches, ambassador appearances and media projects, including the recent documentary series Ronaldinho: The One and Only.The next few weeks will determine whether Ronaldinho’s favorite backup choice can turn the accolade into history. Portugal has never won the World Cup. Ronaldo may not get another chance. The global fans of the football legend are also wishing the same.