Cristiano Ronaldo says he will fully ‘respect’ Roberto Martinez at Euro 2024, even if the Portugal boss decides to bench him.
The legendary forward is looking to captain his nation to glory this summer, just as he did back at Euro 2016, with Portugal one of the tournament favourites.
Even though he is past his prime, Ronaldo continues to lead the line for his country, scoring 10 goals in qualifying, a feat bettered only by Belgium’s Romelu Lukaku.
However, there is debate over whether he can replicate that form at the finals, with some suggesting Martinez should make the tough decision to bench him and let the likes of Diogo Jota or Goncalo Ramos start up top.
Back at the 2022 World Cup, Ronaldo scored just once in five games, which came via the penalty spot, and was benched by Fernando Santos for Portugal’s knockout games, a decision that left the then-Manchester United forward furious.
But ahead of Euro 2024, the 39-year-old says he will remain ‘100 per cent professional’ and is prepared to be a sub should Martinez deem it so.
‘The most important thing is that I am well physically and psychologically,’ he said.
‘I am prepared, I always prepare in the best way. I will be ready as always to help our country and respect the coach’s decisions.
‘The thought has to be that [winning the Euros], be positive, take it step by step. Dreaming is free and this team has the talent to dream. Nothing can be achieved without work, we have to work and fight.’
Ronaldo is the Euros’ all-time top scorer with 14 goals and 2024 will be his sixth and, by is own admission, likely final championships.
‘I know I don’t have many years of football left. It’s a gift to play year after year, after 35,’ the Al-Nassr forward added.
‘I’m 39 and every year is about enjoying [myself]. To score for the national team is special. The national team is the love of my life, winning the Euros would be a dream.
“For me, playing for the national team is a passion, a love. Any game is special, a European Championship is special, it will be my sixth, which is also a record.
‘Playing in 2004, when I made my debut, or playing today, the feeling is always of pride and passion. It doesn’t get any better than this.’
Portugal have been drawn inGroup F and will kick-off their tournament against Czech Republic on Tuesday, 18 June before taking on Turkey and Georgia.
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