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Cristiano Ronaldo is gearing up for what is expected to be his last outing on the global stage as Portugal aim to capture the 2026 World Cup title. Yet, ex-Premier League manager and fellow Portuguese Carlos Carvalhal believes that managing the 41-year-old’s playing time wisely will be crucial to their success.

The physical reality for a 41-year-old legend

The discussion about Ronaldo’s role in Roberto Martinez’s squad has persisted ever since the manager took charge, and it has intensified on the eve of the World Cup in North America. Though Ronaldo continues to be the centrepiece of Portugal’s attack, Carvalhal argues that a more measured approach is necessary to ensure the veteran forward preserves his stamina for the most decisive fixtures.

Speaking about the importance of rotation, Carvalhal explained to Sky Sports: “From a physical point of view, if you ask me, the coach can handle Cristiano better. He shouldn’t play every single minute. It’s important to understand that he will be needed for the next match. Perhaps he can play around 60 or 70 minutes. That is the idea. But the key is that Ronaldo himself must understand this. In reality, if he feels fit enough to play 90 minutes each time, he will want to do everything possible to help the team become champions.”

Balancing legacy with modern tactical demands

Martinez has consistently backed Ronaldo since assuming the managerial role, though the memories of the 2022 World Cup – when Goncalo Ramos replaced the veteran during the knockout stage – still linger. Despite that, the 41-year-old has maintained his form, scoring 25 goals in his last 30 appearances for Portugal. Carvalhal, however, insists that Ronaldo’s ambition to finally lift the World Cup should encourage him to embrace a slightly reduced role if necessary.

“The coach knows that Cristiano wants to achieve something special – he deeply desires to become a world champion,” said the former Swansea City boss. “He understands the influence Cristiano has on his teammates, how he drives them with his mentality. I don’t think things will change dramatically. He remains a vital figure for Portugal. I am absolutely certain that he will start every World Cup game.”

Squad depth and selection dilemmas

Despite Ronaldo’s iconic status, Martinez has reminded his stars that no player is assured of a starting berth. After a final warm-up win against Nigeria – a match in which Ronaldo missed several clear chances – the coach suggested that his preferred lineup is still being refined. With world-class talent available across all areas of the pitch, competition within the 26-man squad is fierce.

“We used 26 players across the two friendlies [against Chile and Nigeria], and they’re all ready for the World Cup,” Martinez said. “I haven’t confirmed the starting eleven yet. We know exactly what we’re looking for. There are many players performing at a top level who can deliver the same output and fulfil identical tactical roles.”

Chasing history in North America

Portugal have been placed in a group alongside DR Congo, Uzbekistan, and Colombia, which on paper offers a relatively smooth start to the tournament. Still, Carvalhal cautioned that defensive transitions could expose weaknesses in the team’s structure. “We must pay attention during transitions,” he warned. “Some teams at the World Cup have very quick attackers who can punish us if our shape is not compact at all times.”

The tournament carries additional emotional significance for the Portuguese squad following the tragic passing of Diogo Jota. The players have carried his memory through their Nations League triumph and are determined to honour him by surpassing Portugal’s best-ever World Cup finish – third place in 1966. For Ronaldo, this event symbolises the concluding act of an illustrious international career, where accepting a well-managed role might prove decisive in his pursuit of the one trophy that has so far eluded him.

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