WHAT HAPPENED?
That is the opinion of former France international and Premier League performer William Gallas. The ex-Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham defender once lined up against Ronaldo in the English top flight.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
He has seen the five-time Ballon d’Or winner extend a remarkable career beyond his 40th birthday, with a new two-year contract being agreed at Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr on record-breaking terms.
Getty ImagesDID YOU KNOW?
Ronaldo is still chasing down 1,000 career goals and is expected to prolong his international career through to at least the next World Cup finals. Plenty are tipping UEFA Nations League winners Portugal to go well in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Next Match
The odd question has been asked of how prominently Ronaldo should figure in Roberto Martinez’s plans, but he remains captain of his country for now and has never been the type of character to back down from a challenge.
WHAT GALLAS SAID
Gallas has, however, predicted pain to be in the cards, with the Frenchman - who was speaking to Prime Casino, who offer the latest online shots - saying: "Cristiano Ronaldo will be at the World Cup next summer, it will be a magnificent end to his career and either way it will be incredibly emotional. We don’t know if he will be able to start games, physically, but he can still play a part in the squad and potentially come off the bench to help the team. Portugal look really strong at the moment, we saw that in the Nations League, but it will be incredibly hard for Ronaldo to fulfil his dream of lifting the trophy. As I said, either way it will be emotional and probably end in tears."
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR RONALDO?
Ronaldo has won two Nations League crowns and the European Championship with Portugal. He has never captured a global title, unlike eternal rival Lionel Messi, and appears to have one final shot at righting that wrong.