Cristiano Ronaldo Not Guaranteed Starter: Portugal's 2026 WC Plan

 Portugal’s Bold World Cup Plan: Is Cristiano Ronaldo’s Starting Spot in Jeopardy?

Portugal manager Roberto Martínez has sparked global debate after suggesting that even Cristiano Ronaldo is not guaranteed a starting place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Selection will be based strictly on form and competition, with age and reputation no longer enough to secure a place in the XI.

Cristiano Ronaldo, who will be 41 during the tournament, now faces greater competition than ever as Portugal prepares for a demanding World Cup hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Martínez’s Squad Strategy

Martínez has made it clear that no player receives automatic selection, regardless of status or history with the national team. His message is simple:

The door to the national team is always open, but the level of competitiveness makes it very difficult to get in.

 With extreme weather conditions and a congested match schedule expected in North America, the coach is planning to take multiple striker options to better manage fatigue, rotation, and in‑game tactics.

While this approach contrasts with Fernando Santos’ more conservative handling of the squad at the 2022 World Cup, Martínez continues to praise Ronaldo’s professionalism and importance. He has repeatedly stated that: 

When Cristiano Ronaldo is doing well, he is very important for the national team.

 

 Competition Up Front

Ronaldo’s impressive club form at Al‑Nassr 25 goals in 30 matches last season keeps him firmly in contention for a starting spot. At the same time, younger forwards such as Gonçalo Ramos and wide attackers like Pedro Neto are pushing hard for minutes and offering different tactical profiles.

Portugal currently sits comfortably in its qualifying group, with the opening World Cup fixture scheduled for June 17 in Houston, a match where Martínez may already have difficult decisions to make in attack.

While many analysts view Martínez’s strategy as pragmatic and modern, some fans worry it could dilute Ronaldo’s iconic leadership role after more than 130 international goals and two decades at the top level.

Ronaldo’s Response and Role

According to Martínez, Ronaldo remains calm, focused, and fully committed to the national team project. The captain has rejected the idea of a ceremonial or “farewell tour” role and is determined to earn his minutes on the pitch like everyone else.

His recent international form backs that up: in the latest qualifiers, Ronaldo scored five goals in five matches, proving he can still decide games at the highest level. Martínez has highlighted Ronaldo’s influence through what he calls three key pillars: talent, experience, and attitude, describing the striker’s hunger to compete as “contagious” for the rest of the squad.

What It Means for Portugal’s 2026 Campaign

Portugal appears to be entering a controlled transition phase, blending veterans like Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes with emerging talents such as João Neves and others from the new generation. The goal is to avoid a complete rebuild while still refreshing the team.

For Martínez, the challenge is a delicate balancing act:

• Over reliance on Ronaldo risks burnout and tactical
• Marginalizing him risks dressing room tension and losing a leader who still delivers goals.

With World Cup qualifiers and preparation matches continuing, all eyes will be on how Portugal manages its greatest‑ever player in what is likely his final World Cup.

The Verdict

Ronaldo may no longer be an automatic starter, but he remains central to Portugal’s ambitions on and off the pitch. Whether he starts every game or is used more strategically from the bench, his role could define Portugal’s World Cup destiny in 2026.