Former England defender Danny Mills believes Cristiano Ronaldo is unlikely to still be playing for Portugal at the 2030 FIFA World Cup, arguing that age and the risk of injury make such a scenario unrealistic.

Speaking to betTOM, Mills said it would be difficult to justify selecting a 45-year-old Ronaldo in the starting lineup four years from now. He suggested that while the Portuguese legend could remain involved with the national team, it would more likely be in a coaching or player-manager capacity than as an active player.

“Unless Cristiano Ronaldo becomes the player-coach for Portugal at the next World Cup, I can’t see him playing,” Mills said. “He’s only one serious injury away from retirement because the body doesn’t recover the same way once you’re in your 40s.”

Mills added that although Ronaldo's achievements are extraordinary, Portugal's future may require a new generation of players. He also questioned whether the team's other stars would be willing to build the side around Ronaldo in the same way Argentina have done for Lionel Messi.

Despite the doubts, Ronaldo continues to prove critics wrong. At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 41-year-old became the first male footballer to score in six different World Cup tournaments. After receiving criticism for a quiet opening game, he responded with two goals in Portugal’s commanding 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan.

Portugal will next face Colombia in a decisive Group K clash, with Ronaldo expected to lead the attack once again as he continues to extend his remarkable international career.