JAKARTA - Portugal National Team (Timnas) coach Roberto Martinez said Cristiano Ronaldo continues to play an important role for the Selecao at the age of 41.
Ronaldo, who is expected to captain Portugal in his sixth World Cup which will be a record, is currently out with a hamstring problem.
"Cristiano is our captain, a role model, and a player with a high fighting spirit. He is not just a 41-year-old player, he is a player who is thirsty for improvement every day."
"He proved himself as an exemplary captain and an inspiration for young players, someone who shows the way and embodies our values."
"On the field, he has scored 25 goals in the last 30 games. We assess the players every day, session by session, and the standard in the Portugal National Team is the highest for everyone," said Martinez.
Portugal was without Ronaldo in friendly matches against Mexico and the United States. The captain's fitness is a concern after he suffered a muscle problem while playing for Saudi Pro League leaders Al Nassr on February 28, 2026.
According to Martinez, Ronaldo trained separately at Al Nassr and could return to action next week.
"He has a minor injury and will probably be back playing and training next week. Nothing serious."
"Cristiano is our captain. He is a very important player. He is our captain in the UEFA Nations League and plays a big role in the final third of the team, movements in the penalty area," said Martinez.
Ronaldo is the all-time top scorer for the Portugal national team with 143 goals in 226 appearances since his debut in 2003.
He has not indicated when he will retire from football. When asked about Ronaldo's future, Martinez also did not know when the megastar would hang up his boots.
"The end of his career? We don't know. It's hard to say. I quickly learned not to try to predict Cristiano's future."
"He's focused on being the best he can be right now. He's not making plans for the future."
"Maybe next week (he will return), according to us. Obviously we are working with the club. I think next week he can start training with his group, so it's not a serious problem," he said.
Al Nassr then uploaded a series of photos on X with Ronaldo among the players seen on the training pitch, in a still pose with his right leg of his shorts raised.
Meanwhile, Portugal managed to beat the United States 2-0 in a friendly match, Wednesday, April 1, 2026. It was the last test match for Martinez before appearing at the 2026 World Cup.
Previously, Portugal played a goalless draw against Mexico on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
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