As Cristiano Ronaldo prepares for what could be a record sixth FIFA World Cup, debate continues over whether Portugal’s all-time leading scorer remains the key to success or a barrier to unlocking the full potential of one of the tournament’s strongest squads.
At 41, Ronaldo remains one of football’s biggest names despite playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia. The Portugal captain heads into the 2026 World Cup as the leading scorer in men’s international football with 144 goals and continues to command a central role under coach Roberto Martínez.
Questions surrounding Ronaldo’s place in the team are not new. Similar discussions emerged during Euro 2024 and the 2022 World Cup, with critics arguing that Portugal’s talented squad might perform with greater freedom and balance without their long-time captain.
Martinez has consistently rejected that view, insisting Ronaldo earns his place through performance rather than reputation.
The veteran striker has scored 25 goals in 30 appearances since Martinez took charge in 2023, giving the coach statistical backing for his decision to continue building around the former Real Madrid and Manchester United star.
Although Ronaldo failed to score during Euro 2024 as Portugal exited in the quarter-finals, Martinez has pointed to Portugal’s success in the 2025 Nations League as evidence that his approach is working.
Ronaldo scored in the final against Spain as Portugal lifted the trophy, adding to his previous international triumphs at Euro 2016 and the 2019 Nations League.
“I have many titles with clubs, but nothing compares to winning for Portugal,” Ronaldo said after the victory. “It’s mission accomplished and pure happiness.”
The striker is also chasing another historic milestone, closing in on 1,000 career goals for club and country.
Martinez has repeatedly praised Ronaldo’s professionalism and leadership, highlighting the experience he brings after more than two decades in international football since making his Portugal debut in 2003.
The coach believes age should not be viewed as a concern heading into the tournament.
“In my experience, a World Cup is different,” Martinez said after announcing his squad. “A player’s age or club form does not always determine what happens in such a competition.”
Support for Ronaldo also remains strong within the dressing room.
Vitinha described the opportunity to play alongside Ronaldo as a privilege, praising the captain’s influence and commitment.
“He’s one of the greatest players in football history,” said the Paris Saint-Germain midfielder.
“I’m proud to share a dressing room with him, learn from him and see his professionalism every day. Hopefully we can win the World Cup with him and for him.”
Midfielder Bruno Fernandes has also defended Ronaldo’s importance, dismissing suggestions that Portugal function better without their captain.
“Cristiano still offers a lot inside the penalty area,” Fernandes said. “If people think we play better without him, then maybe the responsibility is on the rest of us. We can’t focus on whether Cristiano is on the pitch because he can still make the difference.”
Portugal enter the 2026 World Cup among the favourites, boasting a squad filled with talent across every position. Their campaign begins against DR Congo on June 17 before matches against Uzbekistan and Colombia in Group K.
While debate over Ronaldo’s role continues, there is little disagreement about Portugal’s potential. With a squad regarded as one of the strongest in the nation’s history, expectations are high that Martinez’s side can challenge for football’s biggest prize.
Whether Ronaldo remains the driving force behind that challenge or simply one part of it may become one of the defining stories of the 2026 World Cup.
