At 40 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo is still rewriting the rules of longevity in football — and former Premier League rival Joe Cole believes he’s “defying medical science.” The ex-England midfielder claims the Al-Nassr forward can play “at least into his mid-40s,” as Ronaldo continues to score freely for club and country while chasing one last major triumph with Portugal.
Ronaldo Still Going Strong at 40
Few footballers in history have maintained their elite performance levels like Cristiano Ronaldo. At 40, the Al-Nassr and Portugal captain continues to dominate headlines — and the scoresheet — with five goals in his first six matches of the 2025–26 season. His remarkable endurance and relentless professionalism have convinced former Premier League rival Joe Cole that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner could keep playing for years to come.
Speaking to Paddy Power, Cole hailed Ronaldo’s longevity and discipline, insisting that the veteran forward’s success is no accident.
He’s really just defying medical science,” Cole said. “I remember saying when he was 35 that he’d play at least into his mid-40s, and people thought I was mad. He’s still scoring goals — it’s ridiculous.
‘He’s Still Scoring Goals’ – Joe Cole Praises Ronaldo’s Adaptation
Cole, who faced Ronaldo several times during his time at Chelsea, believes the Portuguese icon has perfectly adapted his game to the demands of age — and his decision to move to the Saudi Pro League has helped extend his career.
If he wants to extend his career, he’s not going to do it playing in the Premier League or La Liga,” Cole added. “He’s in Saudi now, and he’s banging in goals. Then when he plays for Portugal, 85% of the teams he faces, he doesn’t have to exert himself physically like before. Put him in front of goal, and he’ll score.
The 42-year-old pundit even backed Ronaldo’s Portugal to comfortably beat Ireland in their World Cup qualifier, predicting a “4–0 win” led by the legendary forward.
Ronaldo Focused on Team Success, Not Personal Records
While Ronaldo’s name is often linked with the pursuit of 1,000 career goals, he has repeatedly downplayed the milestone, stressing that team success matters more than personal glory.
After scoring twice in Al-Nassr’s derby win over Al-Hilal, Ronaldo said:
I’m not chasing 1,000. If it happens, perfect. If not, it doesn’t matter. The moment is the most special thing — not what’s to come. We have to enjoy the present, appreciate the victory, and keep believing.
That humility — rare for a player of his global stature — underscores Ronaldo’s current mindset: still competitive, but content in continuing to make history on his own terms.
Determined to Win with Al-Nassr and Portugal
Since joining Al-Nassr in January 2023, Ronaldo has broken multiple scoring records but remains hungry for silverware. The Saudi giants have started the new season flawlessly, with four league wins from four, and significant reinforcements including Joao Felix, Kingsley Coman, and Inigo Martinez.
For all his domestic success, Ronaldo’s focus now shifts toward the international stage. Portugal’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Ireland and Hungary this October are crucial, as the Selecao look to book their ticket to North America — and give their captain one last shot at football’s biggest prize.
Ronaldo’s drive, discipline, and desire to compete remain undiminished. If Joe Cole’s prediction proves right, the football world could be watching Cristiano Ronaldo — still scoring, still celebrating — well into his mid-40s.
