OFFICIAL: Ronaldo's and Marcelo's sons compete for titles

At the Algarve Tournament 2026, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr and Enzo Alves both attracted attention, but it was Marcelo’s son who made the biggest impact by winning his first international title in his youth career.

At the 2026 Algarve International Tournament, which gathers some of Europe’s most promising young talents, two names bearing legendary surnames stood out: Cristiano Ronaldo Jr and Enzo Alves — sons of Cristiano Ronaldo and Marcelo. However, while all eyes were on Ronaldo Jr, it was Enzo Alves who quietly left the strongest mark by claiming his first international title in his youth career.

This year’s tournament is seen as a launching pad for the next generation of players, with academies and national youth teams actively giving opportunities to new faces. Cristiano Ronaldo Jr wore the Portugal U16 jersey and quickly made an impression in the opening match against Japan, coming off the bench and injecting noticeable attacking energy.

In the game against the Netherlands, he started for the first time, playing about 45 minutes on the left flank. Experts praised his improved tactical thinking, intelligent movement, and team cooperation rather than relying solely on individual skills. Portugal narrowly won, and Ronaldo Jr demonstrated maturity within a disciplined system.

In the final against Germany, Ronaldo Jr again entered as a substitute as his team completed an unbeaten run to lift the U16 championship. Although he didn’t score or assist in the decisive match, his contributions throughout the tournament added another youth title to his growing collection.

However, the most talked-about story at Algarve belonged to Enzo Alves — son of Real Madrid legend Marcelo. Instead of representing Brazil as many expected, Enzo chose to play for Spain’s U17 and quickly made his mark.

In a crushing 7-0 victory over Finland, Enzo scored twice, playing a key role in helping his team win the title on goal difference. That performance showcased not only his sharp goal-scoring instinct but also his confidence and composure in crucial moments.

Raised in Real Madrid’s academy, Enzo Alves combines sharp finishing, dribbling skills, and creativity — qualities reminiscent of the attacking football environment in which he grew up. Yet, his displays prove he is more than just “the shadow of a famous name.”

Under the current coaching staff, Spain’s U17 team remains unbeaten with 9 wins and 1 draw, building positive momentum ahead of the upcoming elite qualification for the European U17 Championship. For Enzo Alves, the Algarve title marks a turning point: from being known only as “Marcelo’s son,” he is gradually recognized as a young striker capable of shaping his generation.

Like Cristiano Ronaldo Jr, Enzo grew up under constant spotlight and scrutiny. But his decisive brace in the key match and the convincing title run have opened a new chapter in his career. Now, rather than just being a legend’s offspring, Enzo Alves is steadily writing his own story through his talent.