Roberto Martinez explains why Cristiano Ronaldo remains Portugal's key starter despite age

Ronaldo will be part of Selecao’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.

Cristiano Ronaldo is still the Portugal national team’s indisputable starter, according to Roberto Martinez. Despite turning 40 in February, Ronaldo leads the Selecao and is anticipated to be a key member of Martinez’s team at the 2026 World Cup next summer.

Additionally, the Portugal manager clarified that the staff evaluates “three pillars” in order to decide whether to keep him on.

With five goals in five World Cup qualifying games, Cristiano Ronaldo is among the first names on the Portugal national team’s roster. The Selecao won four out of six games to top their qualification group.

The Al-Nassr striker missed their last qualification match due to suspension following his red card in Portugal’s 2-0 loss to the Republic of Ireland.

The 40-year-old attacker was supposed to be suspended for three games, two of Portugal’s World Cup matches next summer, but FIFA decided to ban him for just one game. It will allow him to play in the Group K matches for the national team in North America.

Additionally, Martinez has revealed why the iconic striker is an undisputed starter for Portugal, even though Cristiano Ronaldo will be 41 by the time football’s main event begins in June. The former Everton manager cited “three pillars that we constantly analyse” as the justification for his ongoing selection.

Roberto Martinez gives ‘three reasons’ for Cristiano Ronaldo’s continued selection in the Portugal squad

Martinez responded to Marca’s question on why Cristiano Ronaldo is Portugal’s undisputed starter:

“Attitude. There are three pillars that we constantly analyse: talent, experience, and the attitude he can bring to the Selecao.”

“That maximum demand he places on himself to be present and help is what allows the captain of the national team to always be on the roster. That hunger to be the best is contagious. 25 goals in 30 games playing as a striker shows that what he does on the field contributes a lot to the national team.”

Martinez continued by saying that he frequently selects the same players for each international break because it’s critical to establish continuity for the Portugal team.

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