Speaking before Portugal’s opening Group K match against DR Congo, Martinez said the 41-year-old remains a crucial part of the national team despite ongoing debates about his role and effectiveness at the highest level.
Ronaldo, the all-time leading scorer in international football with 143 goals, is set to make history with a sixth World Cup appearance. While critics have questioned his recent performances at major tournaments, Martinez insisted the striker continues to play a vital role in Portugal’s attacking system.
“He is an example and a reference for football,” Martinez said. “Although this is his sixth World Cup, his intensity, commitment and emotional investment make it feel like his first. He is fully prepared to lead the group.”
The coach highlighted Ronaldo’s movement inside the penalty area and his ability to create space for teammates, saying his contributions remain important to the team’s attacking play.
Portugal enter the tournament as one of the favourites to lift the World Cup for the first time, boasting a talented squad that includes Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha, Joao Neves and Bernardo Silva.
Fernandes, who recently enjoyed another impressive season with Manchester United, said Ronaldo’s influence extends beyond the pitch.
“All of us grew up watching Cristiano Ronaldo play,” Fernandes said. “It is a huge honour to play alongside him. We are here to support him and help Portugal go as far as possible.”
The midfielder expressed confidence in Portugal’s chances, pointing to the quality and unity within the squad.
“We have great individual talent, but more importantly, we are a very cohesive and united team. Our dream is to win the World Cup, and dreaming is not forbidden,” he said.
Portugal will face DR Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia in Group K. However, Martinez warned against underestimating any opponent, citing recent surprises at the tournament and stressing that there are no easy matches at a World Cup.
The Spanish coach also confirmed that he will leave his position after the tournament when his current contract expires, bringing an end to a tenure that began three and a half years ago.
“My contract ends after the World Cup. Right now, our focus is on completing the work we started and giving everything to achieve success for Portugal,” Martinez said.
