Cristiano Ronaldo’s football legacy is officially going intergenerational. His 15-year-old son, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr, has earned his maiden call-up to the Portugal U16 national team, marking a proud milestone in what’s already becoming a promising journey through the football ranks.
Just like his father, Cristiano Jr — known affectionately as Cristianinho in Portugal — is currently playing for Al-Nassr’s youth setup in Saudi Arabia. His performances have caught the attention of national selectors, earning him a spot among the 22-man squad for the Federations Cup U16 Tournament in Antalya, Turkey, taking place between October 30 and November 4.
Being the son of one of football’s greatest ever players comes with enormous expectations. But Cristiano Jr appears ready for the challenge, and more importantly, eager to carve his own identity on the pitch.
Earlier this year, he represented Portugal’s U15 team at the Vlatko Markovic Tournament in Croatia, where he made an instant impact — scoring a brace in the final against the host nation. Playing on the left wing, just like his father did in his early years at Sporting CP and Manchester United, Cristiano Jr has shown flair, pace, and an eye for goal that feels both familiar and fresh.
Adding a touch of symbolism, he also wore the iconic No.7 shirt — the same number that has defined his father’s career across spells with Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Al-Nassr.
Cristianinho’s development has been nothing short of global. He has trained in the academies of Juventus, Manchester United, and now Al-Nassr, following his father’s career moves around the world. During his time in England, he even played alongside Kai Rooney, son of Wayne Rooney, forming one of the most talked-about youth duos in modern football.
Now, under the spotlight of international competition, the young forward is showing signs that he might one day carry the Ronaldo name back into Portugal’s senior setup — on his own merit.
Despite the weight of expectation, Cristiano Ronaldo Sr. is making sure his son enjoys the game without unnecessary pressure. Speaking with Rio Ferdinand, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner said:
“He’s a good kid. When I was his age, I was smaller, but he’s bigger and stronger. I think he’ll be bigger than me — let’s see if he has the hunger. The hunger is the most difficult.”
He added:
“He has pressure already for being my son. I don’t make big pressure, just a little. I hope he becomes a professional player, but if not, I’ll support him no matter what.”
It’s a refreshing approach from a man who knows what greatness demands — and what it costs.
As Cristiano Ronaldo continues to inspire millions on and off the pitch, seeing his son begin to chart his own path adds a poetic twist to football’s ever-evolving story. Whether Cristiano Jr becomes the next global superstar or simply a solid professional, one thing’s certain — he’s got the right mentor, the right mindset, and now, his first taste of international glory.
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