Cristiano Ronaldo endured a difficult World Cup opener, but his role with Portugal’s national team has been in question since then, with many feeling he has been a negative influence.
Cristiano Ronaldo hasn’t scored in 10 games in major competitions for Portugal
Paul Scholes has admitted he personally told Roberto Martinez that Cristiano Ronaldo would be a problem for Portugal, who have dominated the World Cup so far.
Ronaldo, now 41, led Portugal’s line as they were led by the Democratic Republic of the Congo in their opening game. Ronaldo failed to get on the scoresheet as his scoreless streak in major competitions was extended to 10 games.
The veteran missed a chance to win with Portugal, but his style and subsequent influence on the team have been cited as problems for Martinez. The former Belgium manager has defended his five-time Ballon d’Or award, and Scholes has previously had candid conversations with him.
The pair did a podcast together, where the Manchester United icon made his feelings clear, insisting that players over 40 should not start in outfield positions.
“I did ‘Stick To Football’ with Roberto Martinez and off-camera I ask him, ‘Is he a problem for you?'” Scholes said on The Good, The Bad and The Football podcast. I think he has a little problem. ”
Then John Barnes came in and said, “He’s a negative influence in terms of what he has to give to the other players because they feel like they have to pass to him, they have to do that.”
Scholes concluded: “At 41 years old, the only position on the pitch that should be played is goalkeeper.”
Martínez defended Ronaldo after he was blanked again, questioning why he felt the need to poach the sport’s top scorer as Portugal hunted for the winning goal. “It makes no sense to have the world’s highest scorer in soccer in a match where goals are needed,” he told reporters.
Paul Scholes has doubts about Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal (Image: YouTube/The Overlap)
“At times like this, Cristiano’s experience in the box is important for us. The way he attracts defenders is also important, how he uses the space. And every player has responsibilities and qualities on the pitch. And obviously, when we go for goals, we need Cristiano.”
The statistics from Portugal’s opening match do not paint a very good picture for Ronaldo. Opta reported that the Al Nasr star registered just 25 touches in 90 minutes, the lowest ever for a full game in a major tournament.
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