Full Breakdown
Cristiano Ronaldo Excluded from Portugal's Pre-World Cup Friendlies Due to Injury
3/21/2026, 3:50:40 PM
Injury Details and Implications
Cristiano Ronaldo has been left out of Portugal's squad for upcoming friendlies against Mexico and the United States due to a right hamstring injury sustained while playing for Al Nassr on February 28. The injury has prevented the 41-year-old forward from participating in matches since then, including the recent Saudi Pro League fixtures. Portugal's head coach, Roberto Martínez, confirmed that Ronaldo's injury is minor and does not jeopardize his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stating, "No, he's not in danger. It's a minor muscle injury, and we think he can be back in a week or two."
Upcoming Matches and Squad Composition
Portugal is scheduled to face Mexico on March 28 at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City and the United States on March 31 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Martínez announced a 27-player roster for these friendlies, which includes notable players such as Bruno Fernandes, João Félix, and Gonçalo Guedes, while Ronaldo's absence opens opportunities for other forwards like Gonçalo Ramos and Ricardo Horta. The squad also sees the inclusion of Mateus Fernandes, who earns his first call-up to the senior team.
Official Statements and Responses
Roberto Martínez reassured fans about Ronaldo's fitness, emphasizing that the star player has been in excellent physical condition throughout the season. He noted, "Everything Cristiano has done physically this season shows that he's in great shape." The coach also mentioned that the upcoming friendlies serve as a crucial opportunity to test new players before finalizing the World Cup squad.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the optimism surrounding Ronaldo's recovery, some critics have raised concerns about the implications of his absence for Portugal's attacking strategy. With Ronaldo sidelined, questions arise regarding the team's ability to perform effectively without their all-time leading scorer, who holds the record for the most international goals in men's football with 143.
What's Next
Portugal's World Cup campaign is set to begin on June 17 in Houston, where they will face a yet-to-be-determined opponent from a playoff tournament. Martínez's focus will be on ensuring that Ronaldo returns to full fitness in time for the tournament, which is expected to be the forward's last World Cup appearance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's a minor muscle injury, and we think he can be back in a week or two.” — Roberto Martínez, Portugal Head Coach
- “Everything Cristiano has done physically this season shows that he’s in great shape.” — Roberto Martínez, Portugal Head Coach
Portugal's upcoming matches will be pivotal as they prepare for the World Cup, and the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike.
