Portugal coach Roberto Martinez has said that Cristiano Ronaldo’s unique experience is why he remains a key part of the national team.
He recently shared that the Al Nassr forward’s form in front of goal proves that he merits his place in the team.
Speaking during an interview, Martinez revealed that it is his job as Portugal’s coach to select the best footballers that will make up the best team to win titles for the nation, and Ronaldo is still one of those players.
According to him, he has always based his footballing decisions on facts, and the latest stat is that Cristiano has scored 20 goals in his last 25 matches for Portugal.
He stated that the dressing room is also very competitive lately because the presence of his captain ensures the remaining players constantly remain on their toes.
“At 40, he has unique experience in the world of club football.
Being a coach isn’t about picking or not picking Cristiano Ronaldo, it’s about using the best players to have the best team and win titles. It’s important to make decisions based on facts, and Cristiano has scored 20 goals [for Portugal] in [the last] 25 games. There are no records like this.
We’ve managed to make the dressing room a very competitive place, and when you have a player like Ronaldo, it’s a football lesson every day,” he said.
He further noted that the Manchester United and Real Madrid legend is the best player in the history of the country; therefore, he deserves all of the respect he gets.
Martinez concluded by saying that CR7 is more than just a footballer for Portugal; he is a national icon.
“He is in the national team and has to be at the highest level.
But I think you have to understand the moments in a footballer’s career. He was a player who lived for dribbling, for that last move. Now he’s a player who has made history. He’s the best player in the history of Portugal and probably one of the most influential in the game.
He’s more than a player, he’s an icon.
Almost like the weather, something you talk about in the elevator. Every day he takes opportunities to improve. That is something that is very contagious. The fact that he only wants to improve influences the younger generation,” he added.
