Roberto Martinez, the head coach of the Portugal national team, has defended Cristiano Ronaldo’s selection for Euro 2024, stating that the decision was made purely on merit. Despite facing criticism for his age and recent club move to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo’s prolific goal-scoring record both at the club and international level has cemented his position in the squad.
Martinez highlighted Ronaldo’s impressive goal-scoring statistics, emphasizing that the 39-year-old striker scored an impressive 50 goals in 51 games for Al Nassr last season. Additionally, Ronaldo contributed nine goals during the qualification rounds for Euro ’24, showcasing his ability to consistently find the back of the net. The coach emphasized that Ronaldo’s numbers speak for themselves, underscoring his invaluable contribution to the team.
Despite his advancing age, Ronaldo’s evolution as a player has been evident, with Martinez acknowledging the forward’s ability to adapt his playing style. As the captain of the Portugal national team, Ronaldo’s leadership qualities and determination have not gone unnoticed by his teammates. Ruben Dias praised Ronaldo’s inspirational presence within the squad, highlighting his unwavering commitment to success and his ability to motivate those around him.
Ronaldo’s recent performance in the final warmup game against Ireland, where he played the full 90 minutes and scored two goals, served as a testament to his fitness and readiness for the upcoming tournament. His international goal tally of 130 goals in 207 appearances further solidifies his status as a key player for Portugal, capable of making significant contributions on the field.
Beyond his on-field performance, Ronaldo’s presence in the Portugal squad is seen as a source of inspiration and motivation for his fellow players. His relentless pursuit of success and his unwavering dedication to the team’s objectives have garnered respect and admiration from his teammates. Ronaldo’s desire to win and his ability to lead by example have created a positive atmosphere within the squad.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s inclusion in the Portugal squad for Euro 2024 is a testament to his exceptional talent, work ethic, and leadership qualities. Despite facing doubts and speculation surrounding his age and recent career choices, Ronaldo has proven his detractors wrong through his stellar performances and unwavering commitment to the national team. As Portugal aims for success in the tournament, Ronaldo’s presence will undoubtedly be a driving force behind their aspirations for victory.
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