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When Portugal begin their 2026 World Cup journey against DR Congo on Wednesday, June 17, Cristiano Ronaldo will be among the first names selected by coach Roberto Martinez.

This summer’s competition in North America marks the sixth World Cup and 12th major international tournament for the former Real Madrid and Manchester United legend. At 41, Ronaldo’s impact and importance to the Portuguese national team show no signs of diminishing.

Martinez has made it clear that Ronaldo’s inclusion in the squad is based purely on his current performances rather than his legacy or past achievements.

“For us, Cristiano’s role is very specific and very clear,” Martinez explained in an interview with FourFourTwo. “He’s our main source of goals.”

“His movement inside the penalty area is exceptional — the timing, the positioning, the runs across defenders remain among the best anywhere in the game, even now.”

Alongside the physical qualities that have defined Ronaldo’s career for over 24 years, Martinez believes the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s vast experience continues to add depth to his play.

“He also brings experience in decisive moments that no one else in the squad can replicate,” Martinez continued. “None of the others have gone through as many crucial matches over such a long career.”

“Then there’s his mindset. His dedication to Portugal is complete, unwavering, and as strong as ever — it’s not rooted in the past. That’s why he remains our captain.”

“He’s scored 25 goals in 30 matches under my management. The statistics speak for themselves. Our selection criteria are the same for every player, and the bar is very high. Cristiano meets that standard. He’s not in the team for what he once was, but because his present form earns him that place every single time.”

Ronaldo enters the tournament with 226 international caps, having made his debut in 2002 — long before some current teammates, like Joao Neves, were even born. Martinez finds that generational contrast deeply intriguing.

“It’s one of the most remarkable aspects of this group and something I find genuinely fascinating as a coach,” said the former Everton and Belgium manager. “Cristiano Ronaldo has been representing Portugal since 2003. We now have players in the squad who were born in 2004. That generational gap is almost unheard of in top-level international football.”

“What’s truly beautiful is that the ball equalises everything. The ball doesn’t recognise age, eras, or generations. The young players learn from the veterans — not just technically or tactically, but in how to handle pressure, how to prepare for decisive matches, and how to carry themselves in those moments.”

“Meanwhile, the experienced players feed off the energy of the younger ones, who remind them of what it felt like to begin their journey.”