Palm Beach Gardens (US), Jun 15: Cristiano Ronaldo's presence in a Portugal shirt once guaranteed one thing - he would be the undisputed focal point of
the team.
Four years ago, the very idea of Portugal being better without Ronaldo would have been dismissed almost instantly. Today, as the five-time Ballon d'Or winner prepares for what could be the final World Cup of his extraordinary career, the debate surrounding his role has become one of the biggest talking points ahead of Portugal's campaign.
Portugal begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 journey against DR Congo in Houston on Wednesday, but much of the discussion among fans remains centered around whether the 41-year-old still deserves to be the first name on the team sheet.
The Questions Began in Qatar
The doubts surrounding Ronaldo's role did not emerge overnight. The 2022 World Cup in Qatar proved to be one of the most challenging international tournaments of his career. Ronaldo managed just one goal, a penalty in the group stage, before frustrations became public when he reacted angrily to being substituted during Portugal's defeat to South Korea.
The fallout was significant.
Manager Fernando Santos dropped Ronaldo to the bench for Portugal's Round of 16 clash against Switzerland, a decision that stunned the football world and signaled a shift in how the superstar was viewed within the national setup.
Two years later, the concerns only intensified when Ronaldo failed to score at Euro 2024, marking the first major international tournament of his career in which he did not find the back of the net.
Fans Split Over Ronaldo's Role
The discussion continues to divide Portuguese supporters. Some believe Portugal's talented younger generation is better suited to playing without Ronaldo leading the line.
"I think in some instances they play better without him," fan Zach Mallias said during Portugal's first open World Cup training session in Florida.
"There are other players that fit the system better. "
Others worry that Ronaldo's status and influence could make it difficult for him to step aside should the situation demand it.
"He's a very big player, he's very loved by a lot of his fans," supporter Beatrice Mitankin said.
"It might get to his head. "
Recent Performances Suggest Ronaldo Still Matters
Despite the criticism, Ronaldo's recent numbers indicate he remains far from finished.
The veteran forward played a crucial role in Portugal's UEFA Nations League triumph in 2025, scoring eight goals during the campaign, including a vital equaliser in the final against Spain.
He also captured his first Saudi Pro League title with Al-Nassr, finishing the season as the club's leading scorer with 28 goals.
Those performances have strengthened the argument of supporters who believe Ronaldo's experience and big-game mentality remain invaluable.
"He's not going to shy away from those moments when it's the World Cup on the line," fan Rob Stickle said.
"He's one of those guys you want taking the penalty kicks and being on the pitch at the end of the game. "
Age Is Just a Number?
Ronaldo enters the tournament as the oldest outfield player in the competition and is set to become the first footballer to feature in six FIFA World Cups.
While his age continues to dominate discussions, many fans point to examples such as Lionel Messi and Luka Modric, who continue to play influential roles for Argentina and Croatia respectively despite being well into their 30s.
"Age is just a number," supporter Ernesto Vilar said.
"He's still in very peak physical condition. "
His teammates appear to share that view.
Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Vitinha admitted he remains amazed by Ronaldo's fitness levels.
"He's 41. I'm 26, and I'm not like that," Vitinha said through a translator.
"It's something incredible. "
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez has even suggested Ronaldo could still be involved when Portugal co-host the 2030 World Cup, a scenario that would see him compete at 45 years of age.
Still the Hero for a New Generation
While analysts debate tactics and supporters argue over selection decisions, one section of the fanbase remains completely united in its admiration for Ronaldo.
Children.
Many young supporters turned up to watch Portugal train in Florida, eager for a glimpse of the player they have grown up idolising.
Ten-year-old Elizabeth Stiebel said she admires Ronaldo's ability to deliver when his team needs him most.
Meanwhile, 13-year-old Christian Loureiro believes the veteran's influence extends beyond goals and statistics.
"A lot of young players on this team need an older figure to help guide them," Loureiro said.
Whether Ronaldo starts every game, plays a reduced role or once again proves his doubters wrong, one thing remains certain.
As Portugal embark on another World Cup journey, the Cristiano Ronaldo story continues to captivate the football world.
And if this truly is his final appearance on football's biggest stage, millions will be watching to see whether one of the greatest players in history can deliver one last unforgettable chapter.
(With inputs from AP)
