Cristiano Ronaldo is once again at the centre of Portugal’s World Cup story — and Roberto Martínez has made it clear he still believes his captain can play a decisive role.
At 41, Ronaldo is preparing for what could be his final World Cup campaign. For many players, simply reaching this stage at that age would already be extraordinary. But for Ronaldo, the expectation is different. He is not in North America for nostalgia. He is chasing the one major prize still missing from his legendary career.
Portugal begin their Group K campaign against DR Congo, and all eyes are on whether Ronaldo can still carry the same influence on the biggest stage. Questions have followed him into the tournament, especially after recent major competitions where debate grew over whether Portugal looked more fluid without him.
But Martínez has no interest in writing off his captain.
The Portugal boss has praised Ronaldo’s hunger, professionalism and emotional importance to the squad. For Martínez, Ronaldo is not just a striker trying to add more goals to his record. He is a symbol inside the dressing room — a player whose standards continue to push younger team-mates.
Portugal’s squad is packed with elite talent. Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, João Neves, Rafael Leão and Diogo Costa give Martínez one of the strongest groups at the tournament. That depth means Ronaldo may no longer need to do everything alone. But his presence still shapes the mood around the team.
There are challenges. Rúben Dias will miss the opener through injury, while DR Congo’s pace and physical strength could test Portugal early. Martínez has warned his players not to underestimate anyone, especially after other early tournament surprises showed how dangerous underdogs can be.
Still, Portugal arrive with ambition. They are Nations League champions, they have experience, and they have Ronaldo chasing one last impossible dream.
For critics, this World Cup may be a test of whether Ronaldo still belongs at the very top. For Portugal, it may be the final chance to turn their greatest icon’s dream into reality.
And Martínez’s message is clear: Ronaldo is still part of the plan.
