As Portugal gears up for the Euro 2024, a cloud of uncertainty looms over Cristiano Ronaldo’s role in the national team.
Despite his legendary status and a career peppered with records and accolades, Ronaldo’s starting position is under scrutiny like never before. The iconic forward finds himself at a crossroads where age and team dynamics pose tough questions about his involvement in what could be one of his final major international tournaments.
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The controversial decision
The drama unfolded during the 2022 World Cup when coach Fernando Santos made a bold move, benching Ronaldo for Gonçalo Ramos in the knockout match against Switzerland. Ramos’s hat-trick in a resounding 6-1 victory justified Santos’s decision temporarily, but Portugal’s subsequent exit left the nation questioning Ronaldo’s reduced role. This moment marked a significant shift, raising debates about Ronaldo’s influence and effectiveness on the field.
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Age vs. experience
Now at 39, Ronaldo is preparing for his sixth Euro, a record in the tournament’s history. He remains the top scorer in Euro history, a testament to his enduring skill and impact. However, the narrative has shifted from celebrating his prowess to questioning his stamina and ability to sustain peak performance throughout a high-intensity tournament.
Leadership and legacy
Ronaldo’s leadership qualities are undisputed. His presence in the squad is seen as crucial for mentoring young players like Vitinha and Rafael Leão, who are making their Euro debuts. His experience is invaluable, especially in navigating the pressures of a major tournament. Yet, some critics argue that Ronaldo’s presence might overshadow the team’s collective strategy, potentially stifling the emergence of other talents.
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The physical debate
Despite showcasing formidable form at Al-Nassr, where Ronaldo racked up significant playing minutes, skeptics point to the less demanding nature of the Saudi league as a factor inflating his perceived readiness. Analysts and former players like Paul Merson suggest that Ronaldo might be better used as a strategic substitute to maximize his contributions without draining his energies prematurely.
Team dynamics
The tactical setup under Portugal’s new coach, Roberto Martínez, appears to favor a more collective approach, potentially diminishing Ronaldo’s once-central role. The debate intensifies around whether his presence on the field enhances or hinders the team’s performance, especially against high-caliber opposition.
The new vanguard
The rise of players like Diogo Jota and Gonçalo Ramos challenges Ronaldo’s automatic selection. Jota’s skills in tight spaces and Ramos’s pressing ability could offer tactical variations that Ronaldo might not. The competition for the starting spot is fierce, underscoring a shift towards a more versatile and dynamic team setup.
This article explores the complex dynamics surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo’s role in the Portuguese national team as they head into Euro 2024. With a legendary career at its twilight and a team evolving beyond his shadow, Ronaldo’s future with Portugal is as compelling as it is uncertain. The tournament may well define the closing chapters of his international legacy, blending past glory with present challenges.
