Portugal’s national team coach, Roberto Martinez, announced the inclusion of Cristiano Ronaldo in the squad for the upcoming European Championship in Germany. This will mark Ronaldo’s sixth appearance in the tournament, setting a new record for the most number of participations by a player. His previous five appearances tied him with Spain’s iconic goalkeeper, Iker Casillas. At the age of 39, Ronaldo continues to defy expectations and showcase his talent on the international stage.
Martinez expressed his admiration for Ronaldo’s remarkable performance, highlighting his scoring prowess and physical fitness. With an impressive record of 42 goals in 42 games for his club, Ronaldo’s ability to consistently deliver on the field is unmatched. In addition to Ronaldo, the squad includes a mix of experienced players and young talents. Players like Bernardo Silva and Rúben Dias from Manchester City, as well as Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot from Manchester United, bring a combination of skill and experience to the team.
Veteran defender Pepe, at 41 years old, plays a pivotal role both on and off the field. His presence in the locker room and his dedication to representing his country make him an essential part of the team. The squad also features rising stars like Vitinha and João Félix, who have proven themselves on the club level. Benfica’s João Neves, at just 19 years old, has already made a name for himself in the Primeira Liga with his standout performances.
Despite the strong lineup, some players like Wolves’ Toti and City’s Matheus Nunes were left out of the squad. Martinez explained that the decision was based on the players’ current form, playing time, and their role within the national team. While Toti and Nunes are promising talents with a bright future ahead, Martinez had to make tough choices when finalizing the squad for the tournament.
As the reigning champions of the 2016 European Championship, Portugal will look to defend their title and make a strong impression in the upcoming tournament. They are set to face Czechia in their opening match on June 18, followed by games against Turkey and newcomers Georgia in the group stage. With a talented squad led by the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal aims to achieve success on the European stage once again.
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