Cristiano Ronaldo could cost Portugal at the 2026 World Cup for one reason, says Chelsea icon

EXCLUSIVE: Cristiano Ronaldo has his sights set on solidifying his legacy by finally adding a World Cup trophy to his resume.

However, if one major mistake is made, it could cost his country the entire competition.

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Frank Leboeuf says Cristiano Ronaldo will need to rest at the 2026 World Cup

Frank Leboeuf knows exactly what it takes to win a World Cup, having won the tournament back in 1998 with France, in a final against Brazil, in which he had to mark the legendary Ronaldo Nazario.

Therefore, his fears for Portugal must be taken seriously.

In an exclusive interview with Sporf, via BetVictor Online Casino, the ex-Chelsea star explained: “The only concern [for Portugal] that I have is how Cristiano Ronaldo is going to be during the World Cup. If he’s fit, the coach will have to play him, but there’s going to be games every four days, and he’s 41 years old, and you have to pay respect to his age. Yes, the talent is there, but will he be able to understand that he has to rest? That’s my concern. But I think he’s been outstanding during the qualification; he’s scored goals, and he has a point to prove to this team.

“We saw Messi win the World Cup, I’m French, so they are my favourites, but in a way, it would be nice to see Ronaldo win the World Cup. I’ve been sad to remember that Michel Platini and Johan Cruyff didn’t win the World Cup, and they should’ve. Ronaldo should win the biggest title in the world.”

Frank Leboeuf opens up about whether France will win the 2026 World Cup

On two occasions, France have won the World Cup, with Leboeuf playing in one of those games, and cheering on his countrymen in the other. Now, the retired centre-back believes his nation is capable of repeating the feat once more.

He enthused: “What we have, it’s exceptional. In terms of individuals, I think they are much better than 2018, and even 1998. If you’re the coach, you don’t know who to pick: Bradley Barcola, Kylian Mbappe, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Michael Olise, that’s crazy, it’s insane, I don’t know what to do with those because they’re so good. In the middle of the park, it’s the same, and at the back, William Saliba, Ibrahima Konaté — they have a good team, it’s great.”

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