Martinez on Ronaldo’s absence: Not called up, not in the squad | OneFootball

At the press conference ahead of the decisive match against Armenia this Sunday (2:00 PM), which guarantees direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup, national coach Roberto Martínez made statements about the team and disciplinary matters.

Cristiano Ronaldo absent from the Dragão this Sunday

«His focus is not on playing. So we always, always work like this. When a player is not on the matchday squad list, they are not with the team. Why? Because the focus of the other players is on winning the game. And we have done this with Bruno, who wasn't in Ireland. Cristiano already had cards in the game against Slovakia, and the next game was Luxembourg, the biggest win ever, and Cris wasn't there. These questions, to me, are disrespectful to Cristiano and the national team players. It's like questioning Cristiano's commitment. Why are we talking about this? He is our captain, has won many games for the team, his commitment is impeccable. And now he has cards and can't be here. It's part of our way of working. He can't be here.»

Ronaldo's red card in Ireland

«I saw Cristiano's reaction to a provocation, which started at the beginning of the game, in every play in the area with the defenders, and the day before, at the press conference. It was a reaction to try to keep playing. It's not a violent action. We need to show the case and prepare well for what would be very unfair, a long sanction.»

Pedro Proença was present at the conference

«We all work together, very united, and that's important at all times, after victories and defeats. We have a winning environment. We are all together.»

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