Portugal: Roberto Martínez defends Cristiano Ronaldo’s key role in the Seleção

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Portugal’s head coach, Roberto Martínez, has spoken again about Cristiano Ronaldo’s role and influence within the current Portuguese squad, as the forward prepares to take part in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, announced as the last of his international career.

At 40, Ronaldo’s place continues to spark debate. While his statistics remain impressive, some observers believe that his impact on the game is no longer what it used to be. A view that the Spanish coach nuances, highlighting the evolution of the five-time Ballon d’Or and his ongoing importance.

In an interview given to ESPN, Roberto Martínez first recalled the constant exposure of Al-Nassr’s star: “I think we must accept that everyone in the world knows Cristiano Ronaldo and has an opinion about him.” The coach emphasizes the transformation of the player: “The Cristiano Ronaldo of 21 years ago is no longer the same as today. Now, he prioritizes positioning, as a true center forward.”

Martínez also highlights his formidable efficiency: “He is a player who helps us close out matches. He is the all-time top scorer. Having a player who has scored 25 goals in the last 30 matches for the national team is a true blessing.” Beyond the numbers, the former Belgium coach praises his exemplarity: “We are talking about the present. His dedication is fundamental. He is the only player in the world to have played more than 220 international matches.”

“With his experience and commitment, Cristiano Ronaldo is an example. He motivates the team in the locker room. On the pitch, he draws defenders, frees spaces for his teammates and shares a lot of his experiences.” And Martínez concludes bluntly: “The main weakness of a player is a lack of effort or a poor mindset. A player who does not commit or does not have the right attitude cannot be selected.”