Cristiano Ronaldo Jr.
Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. Receives First Portugal National Team Call-Up

A Major Milestone for the Next Generation Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., the 14-year-old son of Portugal’s all-time top scorer, has received his first call-up to the Portugal U-15 national team. The Portuguese Football Federation officially announced his inclusion in the squad set to compete in the Vlatko Marković International Tournament in Croatia from May 13 to 18, 2025.

This marks a significant step in the young player’s development, as he follows in the footsteps of his legendary father, Cristiano Ronaldo, who debuted for the Portuguese senior team in 2003 and has since become the most-capped international male footballer in history.

Tournament Details

The Vlatko Marković Tournament, named after the late Croatian football official, is an annual youth competition that brings together top under-15 national teams from around the world. Portugal U-15’s group stage schedule is as follows:

  • May 13 — Portugal vs Japan
  • May 14 — Portugal vs Greece
  • May 16 — Portugal vs England
  • May 18 — Placement match (opponent TBD)

Portugal is expected to field a talented squad that mixes physical presence, tactical discipline, and emerging technical talent. All eyes, however, will be on Ronaldo Jr., whose name alone draws immense attention — but whose skill is beginning to stand on its own merit.

Who Is Cristiano Ronaldo Jr.?

Born in June 2010, Cristiano Jr. has grown up in the spotlight. While his father has played for some of the biggest clubs in Europe — Real Madrid, Juventus, Manchester United — Cristiano Jr. has quietly developed his own game across multiple youth academies.

  • Current Club: Al Nassr U-15 (Saudi Arabia)
  • Previous Academies: Juventus, Manchester United
  • Position: Forward/Attacking Midfielder
  • Style: Quick feet, goal-scoring instinct, and a clear eye for space in the box — all reminiscent of his father’s early years.

Despite the inevitable pressure that comes with the Ronaldo surname, coaches and scouts describe Cristiano Jr. as “focused,” “hard-working,” and “determined to earn his place through merit.”

Legacy in Motion

Cristiano Ronaldo Sr. has repeatedly said that he doesn’t pressure his children into football, but he supports their passion. In various interviews, he’s mentioned how Cristiano Jr. "wants to be better than his father" — a challenge the elder Ronaldo embraces with pride.

With over 200 international caps and five Ballon d’Or awards to his name, Cristiano Sr. is still active at Al Nassr and remains Portugal’s most iconic player. Now, with his son stepping onto the international stage, the Ronaldo legacy appears ready to span generations.

Public Reaction and Expectations

News of the call-up has gone viral across football media. Fans are eager to see whether Cristiano Jr. will live up to the family name or carve out his own path. Football pundits note that this early exposure to international competition could serve as a critical learning experience, regardless of results.

One thing is certain: the football world will be watching closely.

Published by Patrick Jane
06.05.2025