Cristiano dos Santos, the eldest son of football legend Cristiano Ronaldo, has been called up to the Portugal Under-15 national team for the first time. The announcement, made on Tuesday, marks a significant step in the 14-year-old’s burgeoning football career, drawing widespread attention given his famous lineage.
Cristiano Jr., as he is widely known, currently plays in the youth ranks of Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, where his father, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, has been plying his trade since 2022. His call-up to the national youth side is a milestone that fans and football watchers have anticipated for some time, particularly as the young player has shown promise in his early years, often attracting headlines for his on-field performances and goalscoring instincts.
Before joining Al-Nassr’s academy, Cristiano Jr. had already experienced training and competition at two of Europe’s most prestigious football institutions—Manchester United and Juventus. At both clubs, he featured in youth teams while his father was signed to their senior squads. His time at Juventus saw him net numerous goals, even once scoring four times in a single match, showcasing a goalscoring flair reminiscent of his father. At Manchester United, he continued to build his game, gaining valuable experience in one of the world’s most competitive youth environments.
Now, the 14-year-old is set to represent Portugal at the Vlatko Markovic youth tournament, which will take place in Croatia from May 13 to 18. The Selecao Under-15 team will compete against their counterparts from Japan, Greece, and England in the international youth competition. For Cristiano Jr., it will be a chance to don the national team’s jersey for the first time and continue following in the footsteps of his iconic father, who remains Portugal’s most capped player and record goalscorer.
Cristiano Ronaldo remains active in professional football even at 40 years old.
Cristiano Ronaldo himself continues to play professionally at the age of 40, both for Al-Nassr and the Portuguese national team. With over 850 career goals and numerous records to his name, the elder Ronaldo is not only Real Madrid’s all-time top scorer but also a veteran of five World Cups. His international legacy includes winning the UEFA Euro 2016 and the UEFA Nations League in 2019. Notably, in the Euro 2016 final against France, Ronaldo was forced off the field early due to injury but played a key leadership role from the sidelines, inspiring his teammates to a historic 1-0 victory and securing Portugal’s first major trophy.
The news of Cristiano Jr.’s national team call-up has sparked excitement among Portuguese football fans and stirred interest in the global football community. Many are eager to see whether he can live up to the lofty expectations that come with being the son of one of the greatest footballers of all time. Though comparisons are inevitable, coaches and analysts alike emphasize the importance of allowing the youngster to grow into his own identity as a player.
Ronaldo has often spoken with pride about his children and their development, especially Cristiano Jr.’s passion for football. The pair have frequently been seen training together, with Ronaldo sharing clips of their sessions on social media. He has also expressed a desire for his son to carve out his own path in the sport, stressing that while the name opens doors, it is ultimately hard work and determination that define a footballer’s career.
Cristiano Ronaldo has five children, including twins Eva and Mateo, daughter Alana Martina, and daughter Bella Esmeralda, alongside Cristiano Jr. The family’s move to Saudi Arabia in recent years has not slowed down their involvement in sports or public life, and with Cristiano Jr.’s call-up, the Ronaldo legacy appears poised to continue into the next generation.
As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on the young forward. Whether he starts or comes off the bench, Cristiano Jr.’s first international experience will be a pivotal moment in what could be a long and illustrious career of his own.