Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has emphasized the crucial role of Cristiano Ronaldo for the national team, even at the age of 41.
Currently sidelined due to a hamstring issue, Ronaldo is anticipated to captain Portugal in what would mark his sixth appearance in the World Cup.
“Cristiano is our captain, a role model, and a player with great determination,” Martinez stated.
“He’s not merely a 41-year-old; he continually strives for improvement. He serves as an exemplary captain and inspiration for younger talents, embodying our team’s values.”
On the pitch, Ronaldo has maintained impressive form, netting 25 goals in his last 30 appearances. “We evaluate our players daily, training session by training session, and we uphold high standards within the national team,” Martinez added.
Ronaldo missed Portugal’s World Cup warm-up matches against Mexico and the United States. His fitness came into question after he sustained the injury while playing for Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr on February 28.
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Currently, Ronaldo is training alone at Al Nassr and is expected to return to play next week, as per Martinez.
“He has a minor injury and should be back to training and playing next week,” Martinez confirmed. “There’s nothing severe. Cristiano holds great importance to our team; he played a crucial role as our captain during the Nations League and significantly contributes to our attacking efforts.”
As the all-time leading goalscorer in men’s international football, Ronaldo has netted 143 goals in 226 appearances for Portugal since his debut in 2003.
He has not publicly addressed his retirement plans.
When asked about Ronaldo’s future, Martinez remarked, “The conclusion of his career? That remains uncertain. It’s challenging to predict. I’ve learned not to forecast anything with Cristiano; he focuses on being his best in the present and does not make future plans.”