Cristiano Ronaldo’s former Al-Nassr teammate Aymeric Laporte could end Real Madrid star’s 2026 FIFA World Cup dream with Spain

As Spain begins to narrow their options for the next FIFA World Cup, a familiar and trusted figure is returning to the spotlight—placing unexpected pressure on a younger star at club level.

Cristiano Ronaldo has shared dressing rooms with many elite defenders over the course of his career, from Champions League winners in Madrid to ambitious projects abroad. One of those former teammates is now quietly reshaping the landscape of international soccer ahead of 2026. As Spain begins to narrow their options for the next FIFA World Cup...