Portugal coach Roberto Martinez recently defended his decision to continue selecting Cristiano Ronaldo, despite concerns about the striker’s ability to handle the physical demands of the European Championship. After Ronaldo played the full game in Portugal’s 2-1 victory against the Czech Republic, some questioned if his minutes needed to be managed more carefully due to his age.
Martinez highlighted Ronaldo’s impressive performance in the Saudi league with Al-Nassr last season, where he played 2,649 minutes in league play, starting 31 of the team’s 34 games. The coach emphasized Ronaldo’s experience, goal-scoring abilities, and his impact on creating space for other players on the field.
When faced with the argument that the intensity of the Saudi league may not compare to the Euro 2024 tournament, Martinez reiterated the importance of Ronaldo’s experience in handling big occasions. He pointed out that Ronaldo’s presence on the team is not based solely on his past achievements but on his current contributions and work ethic.
Despite being dropped from the Portugal squad during the 2022 World Cup, Martinez has shown unwavering support for Ronaldo and his capabilities. The coach praised Ronaldo’s performance against the Czech Republic, where he had three shots on target and displayed his poaching instincts in the box.
Looking ahead, Portugal will face Turkey in a crucial match, and Ronaldo’s presence will be key to their success in the tournament. Martinez’s faith in Ronaldo’s abilities and his continued selection of the star player reflect the coach’s confidence in Ronaldo’s fitness and readiness to compete at the highest level.
As Portugal progresses through the Euro 2024 tournament, Ronaldo’s experience and goal-scoring prowess will be vital in their quest for success. Despite facing criticism and doubts, Ronaldo’s inclusion in the national team is justified by his consistent performance and impact on the field. With Martinez’s support and belief in Ronaldo, Portugal aims to make a strong statement in the competition and showcase their capabilities on the international stage.