Portugal’s World Cup Aspirations: Managing Talent and Expectations Under Martinez

Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to remain a key player for Portugal, provided he avoids injuries. Paris Saint-Germain forward Goncalo Ramos is also set to secure a position, having previously stepped in for Ronaldo during the 2022 World Cup when the legendary player was benched.

Ronaldo is hesitant to assume a supporting role in his illustrious career, but he must acknowledge the necessity of careful management as he enters the later stages of his record-setting journey. With extreme temperatures anticipated at this summer’s major international tournament, coach Roberto Martinez aims to ensure the team is adequately prepared in critical positions.

Martinez stated to the Lusa news agency, “The door to the national team is always open, but the competitiveness makes it very difficult to get in. Currently, we see the need for a third striker, which will be vital for the World Cup.”

When reflecting on former coach Fernando Santos’ decision to rotate Ronaldo out of the last World Cup plans, Martinez remarked, “What surrounds Cristiano is a historical factor. He is a global football icon, but that does not dictate or constrain our operations. Cristiano remains calm and focused on daily preparations, which is a straightforward approach. When he performs well, it significantly benefits the national team.”

Portugal enters the tournament with high morale after winning the 2025 UEFA Nations League and securing automatic qualification for the upcoming World Cup. The team has scheduled pre-tournament friendlies, including matches in Mexico and the United States in March.

Martinez emphasized the importance of these upcoming fixtures, saying, “We have various player profiles, and the March stage will be crucial in that regard. This World Cup will present complex challenges for European teams, making this training camp essential—first at altitude in Mexico, then in an indoor stadium against the USA. We believe this preparation is optimal ahead of the World Cup.”

Having previously led Belgium in their pursuits for global success, Martinez feels confident about preparing Portugal for the myriad challenges ahead. “This will be my third World Cup. I have learned that no team arrives as a champion. It’s vital to develop throughout the initial stages and ensure our players are at ease during the tournament. We lack a historical precedent in World Cups, which plays a role in our psychological readiness. We need to progress step by step, instilling belief in our capability to win.”

Martinez’s contract is set to conclude at the end of the 2026 finals, but he remains focused solely on the forthcoming World Cup. “My priority is the World Cup. I am pleased with our progress and the federation’s support. We are united for the next challenge. The goal is the 2026 World Cup, after which we can discuss the future. I cherish my time in Portugal and am dedicated to making history so that our accomplishments will be remembered for the next 15 to 20 years.”

Portugal has been drawn into Group K for the 2026 World Cup, which will take place in Houston and Miami. They will begin their campaign against the winner of the intercontinental playoff (Jamaica, New Caledonia, or the Democratic Republic of Congo) before facing Uzbekistan and Colombia.