\n
Roberto Marnez has issued a clear and strong message about Cristiano Ronaldo’s future with the Portugal national team, insisting that the team is “better with Ronaldo” despite the superstar’s recent red card and growing debate over his role.<\/p>\n
Ronaldo was sent off for elbowing Dara O’Shea in Portugal’s shocking 2-0 defeat to Ireland in Dublin, resulting in an early red card and early release from the national team camp. The 40-year-old watched from afar as Portugal responded strongly and defeated Armenia 9-1 in a must-win showdown to book their ticket to the 2026 World Cup.<\/p>\n
Still, questions have resurfaced as to whether Portugal should continue to rely so heavily on the veteran, who currently plays in the Saudi Pro League. Mr. Martonez has no doubts.<\/p>\n
“We are better with Ronaldo, Nuno Mendes and Pedro Neto,” the Portuguese coach said after the defeat against Armenia. “Soccer is a game of mistakes, difficulties and resilience. When you don’t have players here, you have to find another way to win. The important thing is to have all the important players, but at the same time believe that you can win without them.”<\/p>\n
Portugal is more united than ever<\/h2>\n
Ronaldo, who has committed to his sixth World Cup, remains determined to build on his historic record of 226 caps and 143 international goals. Upcoming tournaments in the United States, Canada and Mexico could further cement his accomplishments.<\/p>\n
Mart\u00ednez emphasized that preparations have begun now as Portugal await the draw for the group stage. “Preparation is key,” he said. “The March camp will be crucial for our World Cup build-up.” Portugal’s performance against Armenia was exactly the reaction Mart\u00ednez was hoping for.<\/p>\n
Bruno Fernandes scored a stunning hat-trick and the team showed the cohesiveness they lacked in Dublin. The manager admitted his side’s 2-0 loss to Ireland, their first defeat in 43 Euro and World Cup qualifying games, was more mental than tactical.<\/p>\n
Portugal and Ronaldo begin their journey to 2026<\/h2>\n
“In Ireland we were playing with anxiety and trying to qualify, which is very difficult,” said Martonez. “I really liked the response today. The team was dedicated and united. That’s what changed.”<\/p>\n
Now that they have qualified and regained their momentum, Portugal will now turn their focus to 2026, and if Martinez has his way, Cristiano Ronaldo will once again be in the lead.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
\n
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