The problem is not playing Trincão: Tadeia targets Martínez | OneFootball

Francisco Trincão once again found himself at the center of the criticism aimed at Roberto Martínez after Portugal’s draw against the Democratic Republic of the Congo (1-1) in the national team’s opening match of the 2026 World Cup. After Tomás da Cunha, it was now António Tadeia’s turn to question the Spanish coach’s management, especially because of the lack of minutes for the Sporting player.

"Portugal’s midfielders need forwards they can combine with. But Martínez’s idea prioritizes pace on the wings. The problem is not Ronaldo (although he is not the solution either). The problem is facing a packed defense and not giving minutes to Trincão and Félix", wrote António Tadeia.

The criticism comes at a time when Francisco Trincão is going through one of the best spells of his career. The Portugal international was one of Sporting’s standout players throughout the 2025/26 season, standing out for his creativity, link-up play, and attacking influence in Rui Borges’ system.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.