Cristiano Ronaldo has been backed to challenge time itself by representing Portugal at the 2030 World Cup, potentially lining up alongside his son at the age of 45. The Al-Nassr striker has received support for what could be a “perfect ending” to his storied career from his former Manchester United teammate Eric Djemba-Djemba.

A lasting legacy for CR7

As Ronaldo gets ready for what will be his sixth appearance in the World Cup finals this summer, discussions have already started regarding how long the 41-year-old can continue competing at the top level. While most players his age would be contemplating retirement, the Al-Nassr icon continues to astonish fans and critics alike. This season, he has scored 30 goals in 37 matches, helping his team clinch the Saudi Pro League title.

His ex-Manchester United colleague Djemba-Djemba believes that the five-time Ballon d'Or winner has no plans to slow down. Speaking about Ronaldo’s unmatched longevity, Djemba-Djemba told BetVictor: “I truly believe Cristiano Ronaldo can keep playing until he’s 44 or 45. I’m not at all surprised by what he is doing because I knew him when he was just 17.”

The 2030 World Cup vision

The idea of Ronaldo taking part in the 2030 World Cup carries extra significance since Portugal will be one of the co-host nations. Djemba-Djemba emphasised that Ronaldo’s extraordinary mental strength and competitive drive make such a goal entirely achievable rather than mere wishful thinking.

“We trained together every single day, and even after training sessions, he always wanted to do more,” the former midfielder recalled. “He is obsessed with self-improvement and competition. I’ve never seen a mindset like his. If Cristiano Ronaldo is still playing when the 2030 World Cup takes place in Portugal, then he should definitely be part of the squad.”

Playing alongside Cristiano Jr

The most heartwarming element of this potential chapter in Ronaldo’s career is the chance to share the pitch with his eldest son, Cristiano Junior. The 15-year-old has been impressing in the Al-Nassr academy setup and has even been linked with a possible move to Real Madrid.

Djemba-Djemba feels that a father-son duo representing Portugal would be a once-in-a-lifetime story for football. He said: “It would be the perfect conclusion to his career and an incredible moment for Portuguese football. And imagine if Cristiano Jr is there too—that would be unbelievable. It will be extremely hard for his son to reach the same heights because Cristiano Ronaldo is on another level, but it would still be a beautiful story.”

Preparing the next generation

Cristiano Jr is already following in his father’s footsteps, having scored his first goal for Portugal’s Under-16 team. While there is strong speculation about a move to one of Europe’s top academies, the current focus remains on his growth in the same environment as his father in Saudi Arabia.

With the senior Ronaldo still showing no visible signs of slowing down, the opportunity for a joint professional appearance between father and son is becoming increasingly realistic. Whether that moment unfolds in the Saudi Pro League or on football’s biggest stage in 2030, the five-time Champions League winner appears determined to continue his journey until the next generation is ready to carry forward his legacy.