FIFA World Cup 2026
Lisbon, March 21: There are moments in football when concern travels faster than confirmation. A brief absence, a missed session, a name missing from the team sheet—and suddenly, questions begin to gather. For Portugal, that moment has arrived, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s fitness becoming a point of discussion just weeks before the World Cup.
The veteran forward has been left out of Portugal’s squad for upcoming pre-tournament friendlies against Mexico and the United States, raising initial fears over his availability for the global showpiece. At 41, every injury carries added scrutiny, every setback a deeper sense of uncertainty.
Ronaldo has not featured for his club, Al-Nassr FC, since late February, further fuelling speculation. Yet, amid the growing concern, Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez has sought to calm the narrative.
Addressing the media, Martínez confirmed that the striker is dealing with a hamstring issue but downplayed its severity. The prognosis, he insisted, is encouraging.
“It’s a minor injury. Ronaldo can return to the field in the next one or two weeks,” the coach said, expressing confidence in the player’s physical condition. He also pointed to Ronaldo’s performances across the season, suggesting that the forward remains in strong shape despite the recent setback.For Portugal, the decision to rest Ronaldo during the friendlies appears to be a precaution rather than a necessity. The focus, clearly, is on ensuring that their talisman is fully fit when it matters most.Martínez also hinted at how the team may shape up in attack once the tournament begins. Alongside Ronaldo, Gonçalo Ramos is expected to play a key role in the centre-forward position, offering both depth and tactical flexibility. (AP)
