Cristiano Ronaldo (foto: Getty Images)
Former Portugal defender José Fonte says Cristiano Ronaldo is football's greatest-ever player, praising his longevity, consistency, and influence on teammates.
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José Fonte has added his name to the list of football figures who believe Cristiano Ronaldo stands above every other player in the history of the game.
The former Portugal defender, who spent years alongside Ronaldo on the international stage and helped win Euro 2016, says the striker's extraordinary longevity and consistency make him the greatest footballer of all time.
Speaking after being honored by the Portuguese Football Federation following his retirement, Fonte reflected on the lessons he learned from one of football's most iconic figures.
"Cristiano is the ultimate example of longevity and consistency; at the highest level, there is no greater," Fonte said.
"I learned a lot from him, exchanging ideas, experiences, living things I had never seen before."
"What he does, continues to do, and will certainly continue to do, is commendable."
Ronaldo's greatest strength
Fonte believes Ronaldo's ability to remain among the world's elite players for more than two decades is what separates him from every other football legend.
While many great players enjoyed brilliant peaks, Ronaldo has maintained exceptional standards across multiple leagues, generations, and competitions.
From Sporting CP to Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and beyond, the Portuguese superstar has consistently delivered goals, trophies, and individual awards.
Even in the latter stages of his career, he remains one of the most influential figures in international football.
Portugal dreaming of World Cup glory
Fonte also believes Portugal have every reason to be optimistic heading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The former defender says the current squad possesses both the talent and belief required to challenge for the biggest prize in football.
"Expectations are high, the players believe in themselves and we are all rooting for them."
"They have to start well and believe until the end."
Portugal enter the tournament as one of the contenders, led by a squad packed with experience and quality.
One final mission for Ronaldo
For Ronaldo, the World Cup represents another opportunity to complete the only major achievement still missing from his remarkable career.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has won league titles, domestic cups, the UEFA Champions League, the European Championship, and the UEFA Nations League.
A World Cup trophy remains the final prize he has yet to lift.
Portugal will begin their campaign against DR Congo before facing Uzbekistan and Colombia in the group stage.
If Fonte is right, Ronaldo could still have one more historic chapter left to write.