Leadership Intact, Privileges None

Cristiano Ronaldo remains the captain of Portugal, a global reference point and an inspirational figure on and off the pitch. But Roberto Martinez was clear: heading into the 2026 World Cup, no one’s place is assured.

The Portugal boss stressed that reputation does not outweigh performance. If standards drop, even a legend like Ronaldo could find himself starting from the bench.

A Different Role, the Same Impact

Martinez explained that today’s Cristiano is not the same player who first joined the national team more than two decades ago. He is now a more positional forward, a pure finisher.

“For us, he’s a goalscorer,” Martinez said. “Having a player with 25 goals in his last 30 games for the national team is a gift.”

With 143 goals in 226 international appearances, the all-time leading scorer in men’s international football remains vital, not because of his past, but because of what he continues to deliver.

Commitment Above All

Beyond the numbers, Martinez highlighted attitude as the defining factor.

“A player without commitment and the right attitude doesn’t get called up,” he said. “Cristiano is an example. He inspires the dressing room and passes on his experience on the pitch.”

The coach also underlined Ronaldo’s intelligence in the box, his ability to draw defenders, create space and elevate those around him.

No Signs of Slowing Down

At 40, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to perform at a high level with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League. Martinez praised his relentless drive to improve.

“For him, every day is a chance to get better,” he explained. “We evaluate him the same way as everyone else, and he’s still at a level that earns him a call-up. The national team is better when Cristiano is on the field.”

Tough Calls Come With the Job

Martinez was firm when addressing potential changes to his starting XI. If the team’s needs demand it, he will not hesitate.

“Making difficult decisions is part of our job,” he said. “What matters most is that the team wins and is stronger than the opponent.”

Portugal will compete in Group K at the 2026 World Cup, opening their campaign against the winners of the intercontinental play-off before facing Uzbekistan and Colombia in the group stage.

Cristiano Ronaldo remains a central figure for Portugal, but the message on the road to 2026 is clear: places must be earned. Even legends are judged match by match.

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