Cristiano Ronaldo has been backed to play for Portugal at the 2030 World Cup.

Ronaldo's coach with the national team, Roberto Martinez, feels the 41-year-old could well play at another edition of the tournament in four years' time.

Fresh off leading Al-Nassr to the Saudi Pro League title, Ronaldo is set to appear at the World Cup for the sixth time, extending the record he jointly holds, alongside Lionel Messi.

Ronaldo (22) ranks fifth on the all-time World Cup charts for matches played, and he is the only male player to score at five separate editions of the tournament.

Many suspect this will be Ronaldo's final World Cup, but Martinez does not think it is set in stone.

When asked about Ronaldo competing at the 2030 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Morocco, Spain and Portugal, Martinez told Cadena Ser radio: "No one should doubt that. He's earned it.

"We would love to be able to pass on Cristiano Ronaldo's model to all young footballers in Portugal because he is a role model.

"We, the [national team] coaching staff, have come to a conclusion: Cristiano Ronaldo does not play to win a specific collective or individual title.

"Cristiano is not defined by what he eats, but by the hunger he possesses. Whatever Cristiano wins, the very next day he has the same hunger to improve.

"I have worked with many players that have won a Champions League or a Ballon d'Or and the next day they lose their appetite. What we have with Ronaldo is an example of a different mentality.

"I believe that having that goal is what allows for longevity. Of course, there is a genetic aspect, the work he puts in – he uses everything that can help his body – and his mentality."