Portugal stands at a familiar crossroads as attention begins to turn towards the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. Despite possessing an abundance of talent throughout various generations, the Seleção have consistently fallen short of lifting the sport's most coveted trophy. A persistent question now looms over their preparations: how best to integrate, or potentially manage without, their iconic captain and record goalscorer, Cristiano Ronaldo, in their pursuit of a maiden World Cup title?
Ronaldo, now 39, has been a monumental figure for his national side, leading them to UEFA Euro 2016 and the 2019 Nations League triumphs. His goalscoring record for Portugal is unparalleled, with 128 goals in 206 appearances. However, his role at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar saw him start on the bench for key knockout matches against Switzerland and Morocco, sparking considerable debate about his continued suitability for a starting berth in a modern, high-intensity international side. While still a prolific scorer in the Saudi Pro League, the demands of international football at the highest level are distinctly different.
Under manager Roberto Martinez, Portugal has enjoyed a strong run since his appointment, boasting an impressive qualifying campaign for Euro 2024. Martinez has often found a way to include Ronaldo, who has continued to find the net. Yet, the squad now features a wealth of attacking options, including the likes of Rafael Leão, João Félix, Bernardo Silva, and Bruno Fernandes, all of whom are in their prime and playing at elite European clubs. The challenge for Martinez is to construct a cohesive team that maximises the collective talent, rather than solely relying on one individual, no matter their legendary status.
The tactical implications are significant. A team built around Ronaldo often requires adjustments to accommodate his strengths and mitigate areas where his influence may have waned, such as pressing from the front. Conversely, a Portugal side without him in the starting XI could potentially offer more fluidity, pace, and defensive solidity, allowing other star players to take on primary attacking roles. This is not merely a question of sentiment but a critical strategic decision that could define Portugal's World Cup campaign.
Portugal's status as a 'sleeping giant' of international football, often mentioned alongside nations like the Netherlands or Belgium who also seek their first World Cup, adds further pressure. The opportunity in North America represents perhaps Ronaldo's final chance to add a World Cup to his glittering career, but the team's collective ambition to finally conquer the world stage may necessitate difficult choices regarding their greatest ever player.
Source: Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) statements, media analysis of recent international matches.