Despite doubts surrounding the future of manager Roberto Martinez and speculation surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo’s future in the national team, Portugal completed its qualifying campaign to qualify for Euro 2024. Manager Martinez heaped praises on the Al Nassr striker after team’s 2-0 win over Iceland.
The national team turned to Martinez after losing to Morocco in the quarter-finals of last year’s World Cup in Qatar. Ronaldo was dropped from the starting lineup in the quarter-final by previous manager Fernando Santos. He came on as a substitute in the second half, although to a losing cause.
During his six-year reign with Belgium, Martinez was widely accused of failing to deliver a trophy or reaching a major final. Critics widely regard Martinez’ time as the country’s golden generation. The team had stars such as De Bruyne and Eden Hazard, and striker Romelu Lukaku.
Martinez took over a Portugal team whose morale had taken a nosedive following their defeat to Morocco. Martinez has achieved a 100 per cent win percentage in the qualifiers to qualify for Euro 2024. Meanwhile, Ronaldo has scored ten goals to reclaim his place in the Portuguese squad at the age of 38.
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Following his transfer to Saudi Arabia from European football and his unsuccessful World Cup campaign, Cristiano Ronaldo was expected to experience a period of decline. However, the striker has forged a strong bond with head coach Roberto Martinez. He has scored in six out of the nine matches he has played in the qualifying rounds, including four braces.
Role Model: Martinez on Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 128 goals scored in 205 appearances. Although it has been more than two decades since CR7 made his international debut, Martinez believes Ronaldo’s hunger is as strong as ever.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is as hungry as an 18-year-old player. He is a role model, he always tries to be in the right position and is looking for the goal,” Martinez told reporters.
Keeping Cristiano Ronaldo fit and in shape for next year’s Euros will be of utmost priority for Martinez now.
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