Cristiano Ronaldo’s place in Portugal’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to divide opinion, with supporters hailing the veteran forward as the nation’s talisman while critics argue his presence may hinder one of the strongest Portuguese teams in history.
At 41, Ronaldo is preparing for what could be a record sixth World Cup appearance, extending a remarkable international career that has spanned more than two decades. Despite leaving European football for Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner remains Portugal’s captain and the highest-scoring male international footballer with 143 goals.
The debate over Ronaldo’s role has followed Portugal through recent major tournaments, including the World Cup in Qatar and the European Championship in Germany, where he failed to score despite starting all five matches under head coach Roberto Martinez.
Martinez, who has faced his own share of criticism since Portugal’s quarter-final exit at Euro two years ago, insists Ronaldo’s continued selection is based on performance rather than reputation.
The Spanish coach has stood by his decision to retain Ronaldo as captain after taking charge, despite inheriting a squad packed with world-class talent. Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes remains one of Europe’s leading playmakers, while Paris Saint-Germain trio Vitinha, Joao Neves and Nuno Mendes have established themselves among the best players in their respective positions.
Martinez points to Portugal’s UEFA Nations League triumph last year as evidence that his faith in Ronaldo is justified. The veteran striker scored against Spain in the final as Portugal secured the trophy, adding to the European Championship and Nations League titles already won during his international career.
“I have many titles with clubs, but nothing is better than winning for Portugal,” Ronaldo said after the victory.
“It’s tears. It’s mission accomplished, and pure joy.”
Ronaldo is also approaching another historic milestone, needing just 17 more goals to reach 1,000 career goals for club and country.
His influence extends beyond statistics, according to teammates who continue to praise his leadership and professionalism.
Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Vitinha described it as “fantastic” to play alongside Ronaldo.
“He’s one of the greatest players in history,” Vitinha told FIFA.
“I’m very proud to share the dressing room with him, learn from him, and witness his professionalism every day.
“I hope we can win the World Cup with him and for him as well.”
Bruno Fernandes also defended the Portugal captain against suggestions that the national team performs better without him.
“Cristiano inside the box continues to be a very high-level player,” Fernandes told Canal 11.
“I know what people think, that it’s clear we play better without Ronaldo, that the players are freer and more fluid.
“If that happens, it’s partly our fault. We can’t worry if Cristiano is on the pitch, because Cristiano can give us things.”
However, questions remain over whether Portugal’s attacking play becomes too dependent on servicing Ronaldo. Critics argue the team presses less effectively when he starts and appears more fluid without him, despite his undeniable goalscoring record.
Martinez has dismissed concerns about Ronaldo’s age and the demands of a month-long tournament in North America.
“In my experience, at a World Cup, a player doesn’t follow the pattern of club form, age-related performance or anything like that,” he said after naming his squad.
Portugal begin their World Cup campaign in Group K against DR Congo before facing Uzbekistan and Colombia.
With a squad widely regarded as one of the most talented in the country’s history, expectations are high. Whether Ronaldo remains the key to Portugal’s success or the source of its greatest tactical dilemma is likely to remain one of the tournament’s most closely watched storylines.
