Martinez Backs Ronaldo as Portugal’s Undisputed Starter Ahead of 2026
Roberto Martinez has made it clear that Cristiano Ronaldo remains a guaranteed starter for Portugal, underlining the veteran forward’s importance as the national team looks toward the 2026 World Cup in North America.
Despite approaching his 41st birthday in February, Ronaldo continues to lead the Selecao as captain and played a decisive role in qualification, scoring five goals in five appearances as Portugal topped their group with four wins from six matches.
The Al Nassr striker missed Portugal’s final qualifier through suspension after his red card in the defeat to the Republic of Ireland, but a FIFA decision to suspend the final two matches of his three-game ban means he will be available for the Group K opener next summer.
Martinez has consistently defended Ronaldo’s place in the side, pointing to a clear internal framework used by the coaching staff when assessing selection. Talent, experience, and attitude remain the core criteria, and in all three areas, the Portugal captain continues to meet the highest standards.
Portugal’s qualification campaign provided fresh evidence of Ronaldo’s influence. His goal return and physical presence at the top of the pitch offered structure to the attack, while his leadership set the tone for a squad blending established stars with emerging talent.
The atmosphere around the national team has remained stable under Martinez, with continuity a defining feature of his tenure. Portugal has avoided wholesale changes, instead relying on familiar partnerships and a settled core during each international window.
Key moments across the campaign reflected that approach. Ronaldo’s finishing proved decisive in tight matches, while the midfield control of Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva ensured Portugal dictated tempo in crucial phases. At the back, Ruben Dias anchored a defense that rarely lost its shape.
Martinez has also emphasized that Ronaldo’s contribution goes beyond goals. His movement, work rate, and demands on teammates continue to raise performance levels, with his scoring record of 25 goals in 30 games as a central striker reinforcing his on-field value.
The second half of Martinez’s reign has focused on balance. Alongside experienced figures like Ronaldo, Ruben Neves, and Dias, younger players such as Vitinha, Joao Neves, Chico Conceicao, Pedro Neto, and Renato Veiga have been integrated without disrupting results.
There have been tense moments, including the Ireland defeat and Ronaldo’s subsequent suspension, but Portugal emerged with momentum intact. The decision to maintain squad consistency has helped preserve tactical clarity despite limited preparation time at the international level.
Looking ahead, Martinez views the current cycle as part of a longer project, aiming to build decisions that remain relevant well beyond the next tournament. With Ronaldo still central to that vision, Portugal enters the road to 2026 confident that experience, hunger, and continuity can once again drive them deep into a major competition.