Portugal's 2026 World Cup campaign began with a whimper as they were held to a shock 1-1 draw by DR Congo. Manager Roberto Martinez is now facing a storm of criticism for his refusal to substitute a struggling Cristiano Ronaldo, with pundits suggesting the boss is prioritising his relationship with the superstar over the team's success.
Roberto Martinez will step down as Portugal manager following this current World Cup campaign. As his contract expires in late July, the Spanish tactician has decided not to renew. This monumental exit leaves fans wondering if legendary forward Cristiano Ronaldo will also end his international career, as he chases the one elusive trophy missing from his cabinet.
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has sent a clear message to his squad, including captain Cristiano Ronaldo, by admitting he is still undecided on his starting line-up for their World Cup opener. Despite concluding their warm-up schedule with a victory over Nigeria, the former Everton and Belgium boss insists that places are still very much up for grabs.
The 2026 World Cup is almost upon us. Over the course of the next week, the time for talking will stop, and teams will have to prove their credentials with their performances on the pitch in North America. All roads, whether through the United States, Mexico or Canada, will lead to New Jersey on July 19, and the biggest football match on the planet: the World Cup final.
Cristiano Ronaldo endured a frustrating evening in Leiria as Portugal concluded their 2026 World Cup preparations with a slender 2-1 victory over Nigeria. Despite the win, the 41-year-old veteran lacked his usual clinical edge, spurning several golden opportunities to extend his legendary international goal tally.
Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing to lead Portugal into a record-breaking sixth World Cup, but questions are already being asked about whether his time on home soil is coming to an end. National team boss Roberto Martinez has addressed whether a pre-tournament friendly against Nigeria serves as a final farewell for the legendary forward.
Bernardo Silva is facing a defining moment in his career as his contract with Manchester City nears its conclusion this month. The Portuguese playmaker has long been linked with a move to La Liga, and his national team manager believes he possesses the unique attributes required to thrive at the highest level.
Portugal boss Roberto Martinez has sensationally refused to rule out Cristiano Ronaldo featuring in the 2030 World Cup. Despite the Al-Nassr superstar being 41 years old, his international manager believes his unique mental drive could see him competing when the tournament reaches Portuguese shores.
Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing for what is almost certainly his final dance on the World Cup stage, but his role within the Portugal national team is once again under intense scrutiny. As the Al-Nassr striker eyes the only trophy missing from his glittering cabinet, former USMNT star Taylor Twellman has suggested that his presence actually hinders a squad packed with world-class talent.
Romelu Lukaku has sensationally revealed that the Belgium squad lobbied for Thierry Henry to take over as head coach following the departure of Roberto Martinez. The Napoli striker did not hold back in his assessment of the previous regime, suggesting that the tactical approach under former head coach Domenico Tedesco was destined for failure from the start.
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has addressed a sensational squad selection storm after confirming defender Antonio Silva accidentally leaked a full starting line-up during a major tournament. The manager fiercely defended the Benfica centre-back’s integrity, clarifying that his omission from the upcoming 2026 World Cup was purely tactical.
Roberto Martinez has opened up on how Portugal intend to handle Cristiano Ronaldo during the 2026 World Cup, insisting the approach will be "very natural." As the legendary forward prepares for what is expected to be his final appearance on the world stage, his international manager has clarified that traditional club metrics will not apply in the heat of a tournament.
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has revealed that the national team made a formal approach for Bournemouth's teenage sensation Eli Junior Kroupi ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The 19-year-old forward, who boasts an impressive Premier League record this season, ultimately chose to stick with the French setup, ending Portugal's hopes of a high-profile international transfer.
Cristiano Ronaldo is set to make history after being named in Portugal’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. The 41-year-old captain could appear at a record sixth finals as Roberto Martinez also confirmed several notable omissions from his final selection.
Roberto Martinez has dismissed any suggestion that Cristiano Ronaldo's move to the Saudi Pro League has diminished his effectiveness on the international stage. Following a scouting mission to Riyadh, the Portugal head coach expressed his admiration for the veteran striker’s enduring hunger and physical condition as he prepares for another World Cup.
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has opened up on the relentless drive of Cristiano Ronaldo. Approaching the twilight of his career, the legendary forward remains fiercely dedicated. Martinez insists the veteran is no longer motivated by financial rewards or adding to his vast trophy cabinet, but rather by an insatiable, unique hunger for continuous personal improvement.
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