Portugal coach Roberto Martínez has made the decision to include Cristiano Ronaldo in the squad for the upcoming Nations League matches despite the veteran forward’s lackluster performance at the European Championship. Ronaldo, who holds the record for 130 international goals, failed to find the back of the net in all five of Portugal’s Euro 2024 matches, ultimately leading to their elimination in the quarterfinals by France through a penalty shootout.
Martínez has emphasized that the team is embarking on a “new cycle” in preparation for the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With Ronaldo set to be 41 by the time the tournament kicks off, questions have been raised regarding his future in the national team. Despite the uncertainties, Martínez has refrained from making any definitive statements about Ronaldo’s potential retirement from international football.
It is worth noting that Martínez opted to reinstate Ronaldo in the starting line-up during Euro 2024, a stark contrast to his predecessor Fernando Santos’ decision to bench the forward midway through the 2022 World Cup. Although Ronaldo managed to score in the opening match against Ghana, his performance notably declined in the subsequent games, including the quarterfinal loss to Morocco.
The Portugal squad for the upcoming Nations League matches features a mix of experienced players like Ronaldo alongside emerging talents. Goalkeepers Diogo Costa, José Sá, and Rui Silva have been called up, while defenders such as Rúben Dias, António Silva, and Renato Veiga are expected to bolster the backline. In midfield, the likes of João Palhinha, Bruno Fernandes, and Bernardo Silva will provide creativity and stability, while forwards Rafael Leão, Pedro Neto, and Diogo Jota offer attacking options alongside Ronaldo.
Final Thoughts
Roberto Martínez’s decision to include Cristiano Ronaldo in Portugal’s squad for the upcoming Nations League matches highlights the coach’s faith in the veteran forward’s ability to bounce back from his Euro 2024 disappointment. As the team gears up for the new cycle towards the 2026 World Cup, the inclusion of Ronaldo serves as a reminder of his enduring impact on the national team despite challenges and setbacks along the way. It remains to be seen how Ronaldo will perform in the upcoming matches and what the future holds for the iconic striker in international football.