An Unprecedented All-Time Record
Portugal’s iconic forward has etched his name deeper into sports history ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. With the official announcement of the national squad by Portugal’s management, the legendary attacker has officially become the first football player ever to be chosen for six World Cup tournaments. This selection places him solitary at the top of world football, breaking away from an elite group of players who achieved five selections, including Lionel Messi, Luka Modrić, Gianluigi Buffon, and Lothar Matthäus.
A Two-Decade Journey on the Global Stage
The upcoming tournament marks a significant milestone for the 41-year-old superstar, whose World Cup journey initially kicked off twenty years ago in 2006. Since his debut appearance, he has consistently featured for his country in the 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022 editions. For fans worldwide, this campaign carries immense emotional weight, as it likely represents the veteran forward’s final opportunity to secure the ultimate international trophy missing from his storied career.
Squad Depth and a Touching Tribute
Portugal enters the 2026 tournament as a heavily favored contender, boasting a star-studded lineup that features world-class talent such as Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Ruben Dias, and Rafael Leao. During the official squad announcement press conference, team manager Roberto Martinez delivered an emotional tribute to late footballer Diogo Jota, who tragically lost his life in a car accident prior to the 2025-26 season. Explaining that the final selection consists of 27 names plus one, Martinez emphasized that the team carries a collective responsibility to play for Jota’s memory and fulfill the dream he left behind.
