Portugal coach Roberto Martinez said Cristiano Ronaldo is approaching his sixth FIFA World Cup with the same enthusiasm and commitment he showed before his first tournament, describing the veteran forward as an example for young footballers around the world.
The 41-year-old captain is set to lead Portugal into their World Cup opener against DR Congo on Tuesday as the European side looks to launch a campaign many believe could deliver the country’s first World Cup title.
Despite ongoing debate over Ronaldo’s role in the squad due to his age, Martinez said the five-time Ballon d’Or winner remains a key figure both on and off the pitch.
“He is an example and a reference for football,” Martinez told reporters on Monday.
“For children who are beginning to fall in love with the sport, following Cristiano Ronaldo’s example is something very positive.
“This is his sixth World Cup, but in terms of his commitment, intensity and emotional investment, it feels like his first. He is fully focused and determined to help lead this group.”
Ronaldo remains the highest scorer in men’s international football history with 143 goals for Portugal. While he has not scored in his last nine appearances at major tournaments, Martinez believes his contribution goes far beyond goals.
“He is a vital player for us,” Martinez said. “He is the finisher in the penalty area, he creates space for others and his movement remains extremely important to our attacking game. His numbers speak for themselves.”
Portugal arrive at the tournament with one of the strongest squads in their recent history. Midfielder Bruno Fernandes said playing alongside Ronaldo remains a special experience for players who grew up watching him represent the national team.
“Many of us watched Cristiano when we were children,” Fernandes said. “It is a privilege to share the dressing room and the pitch with him now.
“We are all here to support him, but most importantly to support Portugal and help the team go as far as possible.”
Fernandes is expected to play a leading role in a talented midfield that also includes Vitinha and Joao Neves, who recently celebrated another UEFA Champions League title with Paris Saint-Germain, as well as Bernardo Silva.
“We have a very strong squad with great quality,” Fernandes added. “More importantly, we are united as a group. Of course, our dream is to win the World Cup and there is nothing wrong with dreaming.”
Portugal have been drawn in Group K alongside DR Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia. However, Martinez warned against underestimating any opponent after several surprise results in the opening stages of the tournament.
“In a World Cup there are no easy matches,” he said.
“If we beat DR Congo, people will say it was expected. If we draw, it becomes a disaster. We need to stay focused because every team here deserves respect.”
Martinez also confirmed that his contract with Portugal will expire after the World Cup, although he insisted his full attention remains on the tournament.
“My contract ends after the World Cup. That is not news, it is simply a fact,” he said.
“Our focus is on finishing the work we started three and a half years ago. The objective has always been to compete for every trophy and be fully prepared for the World Cup.”
