Rúben Dias: 'Let's See' If World Cup Will Be The Last For Ronaldo, Messi, Modric

Manchester City defender Rúben Dias is not convinced the 2026 World Cup will mark the end for veterans like 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, defending champion Lionel Messi, 38, and Luka Modric, 40. 

The Portuguese center back discussed the immense motivation his squad feels to capture the only major trophy their iconic captain has failed to win.

Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated tournament, the Portugal international addressed the growing narrative that this summer's spectacle will serve as the final global showcase for several era-defining superstars. 

In a recent interview with Portuguese outlet A Bola, the center back was asked about the prospect of this being the ultimate swansong for Argentina's Messi, Croatia's Modric, and his own national team skipper Ronaldo. 

The World Cup notably remains the only major title the legendary forward has failed to achieve. 

Dismissing the certainty of their impending international retirements with a simple "Let's see…", Dias elaborated on what winning the elusive trophy would mean. "It is an extra motivation factor," he explained regarding their historic quest.

(Getty Images Sport)

For a nation that consistently produces top-tier talent, securing football's most prestigious prize remains their ultimate ambition. Dias insists that the squad do not feel weighed down by the expectations placed upon them to deliver the trophy for their talismanic forward. 

Instead, they view it as a collective mission to dethrone Messi and Argentina. 

Detailing the squad's mindset, the defender noted: "It would be a pleasure for all of us to be able to provide that moment to him, to ourselves, to all of Portugal, to our families. It does not represent extra pressure, it represents, yes, an even