At 40, an age when almost every footballer has long since retired, Cristiano Ronaldo added another major honour to his career by helping Portugal win the UEFA Nations League. It was the second time he had lifted the trophy, and it prompted warm praise from one of the most decorated managers in the game, Carlo Ancelotti — a man who knows Ronaldo's qualities better than most.

A Second Nations League Title

Portugal sealed the crown by beating Spain in the final, a tight contest that finished 2-2 after extra time before Portugal held their nerve to win 5-3 on penalties. Ronaldo was central to the campaign, leading the line and contributing goals on the way to the title. For a player who first became a senior international more than two decades ago, the win was further proof that his hunger for silverware has not dimmed.

It also underlined a wider truth about the modern Portugal side: while a new generation of talent has emerged around him, Ronaldo remains a focal point and a leader, still capable of decisive contributions on the biggest nights.

Ancelotti's Verdict

Ancelotti, who managed Ronaldo during a hugely successful spell at Real Madrid and now leads Brazil, was asked about the forward ahead of a World Cup qualifier. His answer was unequivocal:

"I'm very happy for him. Cristiano is a football legend and remains one at his age, thanks to his seriousness and professionalism. He's still performing at the highest level." — Carlo Ancelotti

Coming from a coach who has worked with a long list of the game's greatest players across Italy, England, France, Germany and Spain, the compliment carried real weight. Ancelotti singled out the professionalism and discipline that have allowed Ronaldo to extend his career far beyond the norm.

The Secret to His Longevity

Ronaldo's durability is no accident. Throughout his career he has been renowned for meticulous attention to fitness, diet, recovery and preparation — the very traits Ancelotti highlighted. As his explosive pace has gradually faded, he has reinvented himself as a penalty-box finisher, relying on positioning, timing and a relentless goalscoring instinct rather than the flying wing play of his youth.

That capacity to adapt has kept him relevant at the elite level long after most of his contemporaries stepped away, and it is a major reason he remains a talismanic figure for his country.

Eyes on 2026

The praise inevitably turns attention to the 2026 World Cup. It is the one major prize still missing from Ronaldo's collection, and by the time the tournament arrives he will be in his forties — an age at which even legends rarely compete at the very top. Whether he features, and in what role, is one of the sport's compelling subplots. What is certain is that his professionalism, the quality Ancelotti praised, has given him a chance few would have thought possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many times has Ronaldo won the Nations League?

Twice with Portugal, adding to a trophy haul that already included the European Championship in 2016.

What did Carlo Ancelotti say about Ronaldo?

He called Ronaldo a football legend who continues to perform at the highest level thanks to his seriousness and professionalism.

Did Ronaldo and Ancelotti work together?

Yes. Ancelotti managed Ronaldo at Real Madrid during a highly successful period for the club.

Key Takeaways

  • Ronaldo, at 40, helped Portugal win a second UEFA Nations League title, beating Spain on penalties in the final.
  • Carlo Ancelotti praised his professionalism and enduring quality at the highest level.
  • His longevity stems from meticulous fitness and a reinvention as a penalty-box finisher.
  • The 2026 World Cup looms as the one major honour still missing from his career.