Brazil’s national team coach, Carlo Ancelotti, has backed Cristiano Ronaldo to reach the incredible milestone of 1,000 career goals, saying the Portuguese legend has the drive and professionalism to make it happen.

Ronaldo, who has already scored over 950 goals for club and country, remains one of football’s most relentless finishers. The 40-year-old has hinted that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will likely be his last, but Ancelotti insists that retirement or not, the Al-Nassr forward still has unfinished business.

Speaking to Spanish journalist Tomás Roncero, as quoted by AS, the veteran coach said: “He will get there, no doubt. I have no doubt he will make it.

“In Italy, they asked me about Modric at 40, and I said, of course, he will play well at Milan. Luka and Cristiano are professionals who love football and are passionate about it.

“They will always achieve what they set their minds to. Cristiano will surely reach 1,000 goals, but when he does, he’d better not forget to invite me to the celebration of that incredible record.”

Ancelotti, who managed Ronaldo during their time together at Real Madrid, also spoke about his former player and now Real Madrid manager, Xabi Alonso. The Spaniard took charge of Los Blancos earlier this year after replacing Ancelotti and has since kept the team flying high at the top of the LaLiga table.

“Xabi, yes, absolutely. I also had him at Bayern. A player with great vision. I was convinced he’d do well… and he is doing brilliantly,” Ancelotti said.

“Obviously, yes. I see a solid team, especially at the back, and very effective up front. Mbappé is doing great, and Bellingham is back. I think Xabi can succeed without any problem.”

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