Rooney backs Ronaldo for 2026 World Cup glory if England falls short
Wayne Rooney said he would love to see Cristiano Ronaldo win the 2026 FIFA World Cup should England not claim the trophy, echoing Bruno Fernandes' wish for Portugal to honor the superstar. Rooney made the comment during a recent episode of The Wayne Rooney Show on BBC, adding that he hopes Ronaldo enjoys the tournament and performs well. Fernandes had earlier said wrapping up Ronaldo's international career with a World Cup win would be 'something amazing' for football and the world.
Ronaldo, 41, is preparing for what could be his final World Cup appearance. He holds the records for most caps (226) and most goals (143) in men's international football, yet a World Cup medal remains the only major honour missing from his collection. Portugal enters the tournament as a favourite, giving Ronaldo a fifth chance to reach the podium after his best finish of fourth place in 2006.
The remarks highlight the mutual respect between former Manchester United teammates and the broader narrative of Ronaldo's quest to complete his trophy cabinet. As the tournament approaches, fans will watch whether the veteran striker can finally lift the sport's biggest prize.
Will you cheer for Ronaldo's historic World Cup win, or hope another nation claims the trophy this summer?