Spanish coach Roberto Martinez praised Cristiano Ronaldo, expressing strong confidence in his ability to be part of the team during the upcoming World Cup.
A goalless draw dominated the friendly encounter of the Portuguese national team against its host, Mexico, held early this morning, Sunday.
The two teams are preparing to participate in the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico next summer.
Cristiano Ronaldo was absent from the Portuguese national team's camp due to a muscular injury he suffered with his team during a match against Al-Fayha in the Saudi League.
In statements carried by "The Guardian," the Spanish coach referred to Ronaldo as a "historic symbol," emphasizing the importance of his presence and his leadership role in the team, saying, "The biggest mistake people make is not properly appreciating Ronaldo's current value. It's truly special and exceptional to have a player who has spent 21 years with the national team, so we must accept and discuss this because Ronaldo is a unique player, an icon who has changed the face of football."
Martinez decisively responded to questions about Cristiano Ronaldo's retirement from football after turning 41, saying, "After the UEFA Nations League, some began to wonder: What will happen to the Portuguese national team after Ronaldo's retirement?"
He added: "I've always believed that the body is what imposes the retirement decision on a player, but the truth is that the mind is decisive, and Cristiano has not yet reached this stage and has not made this decision."
Ronaldo recently returned to Riyadh after a long trip in Madrid, Spain. Since the beginning of this March, he has been showcasing the injury he was suffering from to his personal doctor and resumed his rehabilitation and treatment program last Thursday to prepare for his return to group training sessions in the past few days.
Cristiano Ronaldo has delivered impressive numbers with the Portuguese national team, scoring 25 goals in 30 matches since the 2022 World Cup.
The Portuguese national team will play another friendly match at dawn next Wednesday against their American opponent during the current international break.
