José Mourinho: “I’m in Touch with Cristiano Ronaldo… He Dreams of Winning 2026 World Cup”

José Mourinho, one of the most decorated and charismatic football managers in history, recently revealed exciting news during his tenure at Fenerbahçe: he remains in contact with Cristiano Ronaldo, who aims for a final World Cup triumph in 2026 with Portugal. This revelation captured global attention—not only for what it signals about Ronaldo’s ambitions, but for how it sets the stage for a potential Mourinho–Ronaldo reunion on the international scene.

A Coach’s Confession

During a recent press conference, Mourinho—now coaching Turkish side Fenerbahçe—spoke candidly about his enduring bond with Ronaldo:

“I’m in touch with Cristiano Ronaldo, we have a good relationship. He wants to take part in the 2026 World Cup and dreams of winning it.”

The words resonate powerfully. This isn’t a former manager speaking of nostalgia—it’s a current coach acknowledging an active dialogue and shared purpose. Mourinho confirmed he isn’t simply discussing the legend in theory; their relationship remains dynamic and forward-thinking.

Mourinho’s Portugal Comeback Hints

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has reportedly explored the idea of appointing Mourinho as Portugal’s national team manager ahead of the 2026 World Cup . While Mourinho initially denied concrete talks, he didn’t fully shut the door—hinting that, for him, coaching Portugal would be a dream come true 

One insider report stated:

The FPF sees Mourinho as the only coach capable of guiding Ronaldo’s final World Cup campaign, with a tentative agreement in place dependent on Fenerbahçe’s season and a buyout clause 

If the FPF secures his services, it could mark Mourinho’s first national team assignment—creating the dramatic possibility of one last dance between manager and player on football’s grandest stage.

The Power of Connection

Mourinho and Ronaldo’s previous partnership at Real Madrid (2010–2013) was hugely successful, with Ronaldo scoring 168 goals in 164 appearances under the Portuguese tactician . They won La Liga in 2011–12—a record-breaking season—and developed a fierce, effective working relationship.

Their dynamic, as Mourinho once said:

“With Cristiano Ronaldo, nothing is impossible for Portugal” 

Now, more than a decade later, the two remain in contact, reinforcing the idea that their synergy may not be confined to memories of club success.

Ronaldo’s Final Bow on the World Stage

At 41 years old, Ronaldo faces a pivotal career moment. Sir Alex Ferguson publicly doubted his ability to still impact a 2026 World Cup squad , and few still debated whether he would retire from international play.

Yet, Ronaldo’s own statements—and now Mourinho’s confirmation—suggest otherwise. His ambition to play in a sixth World Cup, and to leave the game as a World Cup winner, shows undiminished drive.

Mourinho’s confirmation—that Ronaldo “dreams of winning it”—reinforces this narrative: the final chapter is far from closed, and perhaps the greatest chapter yet.

Tactical Landscape & Portugal’s Strategy

If Mourinho replaces Roberto Martínez ahead of the tournament, Portugal can expect a stark tactical shift. Known for his meticulous preparation and defensive discipline, Mourinho would offer a structure in which a veteran squad can thrive: compact defense, quick transitions, and focused squad roles.

However, his international pedigree is untested: he’s never managed a national side. Balancing Ronaldo’s star power with tactical authority—and maintaining harmony within a diverse squad—would be Mourinho’s greatest test.

Fan and Media Mix

News of Mourinho staying in touch with Ronaldo received a flood of reactions:

Reddit commentary from fans and analysts highlighted intense speculation:

“He wants to unite a country… basically impossible for a club, but maybe he can do it with Portugal” 
“They fell out at Real… but were still incredibly successful” 

Portuguese, Turkish, and global football media pointed out that for team and nation-building, the couple’s reunion could be a strategic masterstroke.

Age vs. Ambition

Ronaldo, though aging, remains astonishingly fit—his work rate with Al-Nassr suggests he’s prepared for one last tournament. Yet skeptics question if physical decline will hinder him at the world level.

Mourinho’s assertion—“He wants to take part… dreams of winning it”—offers a profound reassurance: despite age, Ronaldo’s motivation remains unmatched. And a manager who knows how to manage veteran stars might be precisely the support he needs.

Policy & Power Plays

The FPF’s interest in Mourinho is no small matter. Reports have highlighted internal debate about funds, technical direction, and whether Mourinho’s blow-the-roof-off style fits long-term squad development 

If they proceed, this partnership—Mourinho, a tactical veteran, and Ronaldo, a global icon—could redefine Portugal’s approach to the 2026 World Cup and beyond.

The Broader Impact on World Football

The potential Mourinho–Ronaldo reunion isn’t just a Portuguese headline—it has global reverberations:

Smaller nations will take note: can a strong national team hire trump club prestige?

Luke Ronaldo the player-coach dynamic moves into new territory: can a manager effectively manage a high-profile former player who remains central to a team’s image and strategy?

Ultimately, Portugal’s moves could reshape late-career pathways for stars—rather than fading quietly, legends may now have well-supported finales.

Conclusion: The Dream Reignited

José Mourinho’s revelation that he’s in regular contact with Cristiano Ronaldo, combined with confirmation of Ronaldo’s 2026 World Cup dream, sets up one of football’s greatest cliffhangers.

Will Mourinho take charge? Portugal seems prepared to pay what it takes.

Will Ronaldo stay fit, competitive, and motivated at 41? His dream says yes.

Can they align as a tactical force on the world stage? Only time will tell.

But that Mourinho–Ronaldo bond retains the same electricity it once did at Real Madrid. And now, it’s poised to electrify the World Cup stage one final time.

Sources & Reactions at a Glance

FPF exploring Mourinho appointment to lead Ronaldo’s final World Cup push 

Ronaldo’s ambition and Mourinho’s ongoing contact confirmed (current coach’s remarks)

Historical success under Mourinho (168 goals in 164 games) 

Skepticism from Sir Alex Ferguson on Ronaldo at 41 

Fan excitement and worries spotted on Reddit and fan forums