Football: Portugal's coach predicts Cristiano's retirement date, and it might surprise you

Cristiano Ronaldo is fully aware that his career is nearing its end. The Portuguese footballer is already 41 years old and is preparing to play in his last World Cup. However, the Portuguese national team coach, Roberto Martinez, clearly states that, for the time being, CR7's retirement is still a long way off.

Roberto Martinez seriously considered calling up Ronaldo for the World Cup and hopes he will lead his team to victory. For this to happen, it is essential that CR7 be at the peak of his form, which the manager assures he is confident will continue, judging him to be in full possession of his abilities.

The Portugal coach predicts Cristiano Ronaldo's retirement date.

In an interview with the BBC, Roberto Martinez was asked about Cristiano Ronaldo's situation and the coach had nothing but praise for the former Real Madrid player.

"He is a perfect example of what it takes to represent Portugal and the national team. And now he has adapted, obviously, after 21 years in the national team, he has been able to adjust," explained Martinez.

Regarding Ronaldo's retirement, the coach was very clear, emphasizing that it is far from a done deal. Martinez added: "I think he's a very self-critical player. When he realizes he can no longer help the team, he'll be the one to decide when to leave."

Roberto Martinez addresses the criticism surrounding his regular call-ups of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Although Martinez considers CR7 a player capable of continuing to contribute to the Portuguese national team, his selection has drawn considerable criticism due to the striker's age. When questioned about this, the coach was very clear.

“He has always been a goalscorer, he is an important player for us and, for me, the most important thing is the player he is today. As a national coach, a player who has scored 25 goals in the last 30 international matches… it’s not that he plays for what he has done in the past, it’s for what he has done now,” said Martinez.

With his coach's confidence at its highest level, Cristiano is preparing to play in another World Cup and hopes this will finally be the one to win it. If so, CR7 might decide to retire with the only trophy he's missing.