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Cristiano Ronaldo’s eldest son, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr, has received his first call-up to Portugal’s under-17 national team, taking another step towards following in his father’s footsteps.
The 16-year-old forward has been included in Portugal’s squad for the qualifying round of the European Under-17 Championship, marking his latest progress in youth international football.
Portugal will begin their qualifying campaign against Andorra on November 11, followed by matches against Bulgaria on November 14 and Serbia on November 17. All three matches will be played at the Portuguese Football Federation’s training centre in Oeiras.
Known in football circles as Cristianinho, Ronaldo Jr has previously represented Portugal at under-15 and under-16 levels. He has scored five goals in 13 appearances across the two age groups.
He currently plays for the youth team of Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, where his father also plays.
His latest call-up comes at a time when questions have emerged over Ronaldo’s own international future following reports of disagreements with the national team coach and his departure from the national team camp.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has, however, repeatedly cautioned against placing pressure on his son to become a professional footballer, stressing that talent alone is not enough to succeed at the highest level.
In an earlier interview, Ronaldo said time would tell whether his son could become a great player, adding that he was still young and had much to learn.
He praised the teenager’s pace and dribbling ability but emphasised that hard work, dedication and discipline were essential for a successful football career.
Ronaldo also said he would not force his son to become a footballer, expressing his wish for him to excel in whatever profession he eventually chooses, whether football or medicine.
