Criticism of Martinez: keeping Ronaldo central for too long in Portugal

While Portugal in the qualifiers and the recent World Cup continues to rely on Cristiano Ronaldo, former Red Devils coach Roberto Martinez is once again faced with harsh criticism. Observers argue that he gave the 40‑year‑old striker a prominent role for too long, even when Ronaldo no longer seemed to be in top form.

Repeated criticism of Martinez

Martinez has already been under fire in Portugal several times because of his tactical choices. The current controversy revolves around the fact that Ronaldo started regularly and received many minutes, despite doubts about his physical condition. Critics point out that a player of his age should not automatically start every match. Grella, who played in England, Denmark and Major League Soccer between 2007 and 2018, says: “It is really a shame – even regrettable – that Roberto Martinez did not have enough personality or courage to put the team’s interest first.” He adds that Martinez should have said: “I must do what is best for the team.”

Grella emphasizes that Ronaldo’s status and past should not dictate the team selection. “Don’t tell me his name, don’t tell me where he played, which trophies he won or how many goals he scored… I don’t need to know that, because he is not the best option for Portugal at this moment,” the analyst says.

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The analyst draws a comparison with a striker who recently transferred for €75 million to AC Milan and scored the winning goal in the previous match, yet was placed on the bench. This analogy underscores his view that Martinez should have chosen a different player.

Martinez, who previously led the Red Devils, is now once again targeted for his handling of Ronaldo. The debate continues, with both the coach and the star player being scrutinized.