Real Madrid legend urges Cristiano Ronaldo to never retire: Even with one leg

Roberto Carlos believes Cristiano Ronaldo should keep playing at all costs days after the Portuguese forward reached 41 years of age

Roberto Carlos believes football is still better with Cristiano Ronaldo on the pitch, stressing that the Portuguese star should continue playing for as long as possible.

Speaking with admiration, the Brazil legend made it clear that, in his view, Ronaldo’s presence remains essential to the game and to the generations that look up to him.

“Cristiano can’t stop, ever. If he ever decides to stop playing, I’ll call him and tell him not to stop,” Roberto Carlos told O Jogo. “He’s one of those players who represent a lot, both for clubs and for the national team, for children, for younger players.”

At a time when most players from Ronaldo’s generation have long since retired, the Portuguese forward continues to perform at elite level, a fact Roberto Carlos believes sends a powerful message across world football.

“He should never stop playing football, even if it’s just with one leg or crawling. He transmits a lot of strength and energy to any boy who wants to start,” Carlos added.

From his breakthrough in Portugal to superstardom in England and Spain, and later chapters elsewhere, his story has become synonymous with discipline, longevity and an almost unmatched commitment to improvement.

Roberto Carlos pointed to his durability as a defining factor, noting that serious injuries have largely avoided him throughout his career. That consistency, in Carlos’ view, is what keeps the door open for even bigger milestones.

“For those who love Cristiano and football, seeing him continue to make history and break records is wonderful,” he said. “The only player to have scored 1,000 goals was Pele, but Cristiano could join the list. I’m absolutely certain he’ll reach that milestone. He never gets injured. He continues to play well he’s a role model.”

🤷‍♂️ “You’ll have to ask Cristiano Ronaldo”

Al Hilal CEO Esteve Calzada isn’t sure why Cristiano Ronaldo is angry after Karim Benzema’s transfer.https://t.co/9e7jbb3a28 #CR7 #AlNassr #AlHilal #SPL

— BBSportNews (@thebbsportnews) February 4, 2026

World Cup ambition and an unfinished international chapter

With the 2026 World Cup approaching, the former Brazil full-back allowed himself to imagine a scenario that would resonate deeply within the sport.

“It would be beautiful, without a doubt,” he said, when asked about the possibility of a World Cup final between Brazil and Portugal. “It has never happened, but there’s always a first time, and hopefully it will.”

The idea of such a final would carry enormous symbolism. Brazil represent football’s most storied nation, while Portugal have grown into a consistent force on the international stage during Ronaldo’s era.

“Portugal are a team that can beat anyone… They are among the favourites, as always,” he added.

For Ronaldo, the World Cup remains the one prize that continues to elude him, and Roberto Carlos’ comments suggest he believes the forward still has a meaningful role to play on that stage.

Leadership, experience and belief are qualities that do not disappear with age, and Carlos views those traits as central to Portugal’s hopes.