Cristiano Ronaldo fitness fears eased as Roberto Martinez stresses highest standards before 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

Roberto Martinez has moved to calm concerns over Cristiano Ronaldo’s fitness, describing the hamstring issue as minor. He also underlined the 41-year-old captain’s central role as Portugal build towards the 2026 World Cup.

According to Goal.com, Ronaldo missed March warm-ups against Mexico and the United States after a muscular problem for Al-Nassr on 28 February. He has been training separately in Riyadh, with his absence viewed as precautionary while his condition is checked daily.

Martinez praised Ronaldo’s hunger and influence on younger players, noting a return of 25 goals in his last 30 games. He said every player is assessed session by session, and the national team’s standards are the highest for everyone.

The coach reiterated the injury is minor and said Ronaldo will probably resume training and playing next week. He highlighted the forward’s importance in the final third, particularly his movement in the box, and his leadership in the Nations League.

On longevity, Martinez said it is hard to predict when Ronaldo might stop, adding the captain focuses on being the best he can be now rather than making long-term plans.

Ronaldo is expected to return for Al-Nassr against Al-Najma on Friday. The aim is to hit peak condition for Portugal’s World Cup opener in Houston on June 17, in a group with Uzbekistan, Colombia and either DR Congo or Jamaica.

Source: Goal.com