Cristiano Ronaldo and Jose Mourinho reunion talk grows stronger

A reunion between Cristiano Ronaldo and Jose Mourinho could happen after the 2026 World Cup, with Mourinho widely expected to become Portugal’s next manager. Mourinho, now at Benfica, last won a major trophy in 2022 and faces pressure as Benfica sit nine points behind in the league. Ronaldo, still prolific at forty with 143 international goals, may even play through 2030.

For the Portuguese football landscape, a major storyline is emerging as Jose Mourinho is increasingly tipped to become the next national team manager, potentially reuniting with Cristiano Ronaldo after the 2026 World Cup. Mourinho, now 62 and currently in charge of Benfica, has endured a period without major trophies since winning the Conference League with Roma in 2022.

Benfica sit nine points off the league leaders, meaning his silverware drought could stretch to four years. Despite this, his stature in Portuguese football remains immense. Former midfielder Pedro Mendes noted that while football has changed, Mourinho’s commanding presence and communication style remain intact, even if recent struggles reflect changing times. His contract with Benfica runs until 2027, but his long-expressed desire to manage Portugal keeps speculation alive, with Roberto Martinez’s future hinging on World Cup results.

A reunion with Ronaldo is possible as the 40 year old forward continues to produce remarkable numbers for Al Nassr, adding Golden Boots and chasing the unprecedented target of one thousand career goals. With 226 caps and 143 goals for Portugal, Ronaldo is expected to play in the 2026 World Cup and might even continue through Euro 2028 and the 2030 World Cup, opening the door for another chapter alongside Mourinho.