Cristiano Ronaldo makes rallying ahead of Euro 2024 as Roberto Martinez announces 26-man Portugal squad
Cristiano Ronaldo has looked to galvanize his Portugal teammates after being named in Roberto Martinez's 26-man squad for Euro 2024. The Al-Nassr superstar will captain Selecao das Quinas at this summer's European Championships.
The 2016 UEFA European Champion reacted to his call-up with a post on X (formerly Twitter). He wrote:
"Proud to represent Portugal again in the Euro. Let's go together!" #PartilhaAPaixao
It could be Cristiano Ronaldo's final international tournament given he's 39 years old. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner was in electric form during Portugal's Euro 2024 qualifying campaign.
Ronaldo registered 10 goals and two assists in nine qualifying games, including four braces. This added to a remarkable tally of 128 goals and 46 assists in 206 caps, the best goalscorer in international football history.
The five-time UEFA Champions League winner will lead Portugal in Germany where they start in Group F. Martinez's side face Czechia (June 18), Turkiye (June 22), and Georgia (June 26).
Ronaldo will be eager to shine at a record sixth Euros given he endured a difficult 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign. He managed just one goal in five games and there were question marks over his future with the national team.
Manchester City's Bernardo Silva and Ruben Dias have also made the squad as have Manchester United pair Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot. FC Porto's Pepe, 41, will be the oldest player in the squad.
Portugal boss Roberto Martinez named Cristiano Ronaldo as the best player he's worked with
Martinez waxed lyrical about Cristiano Ronaldo when speaking in February. The Spanish coach had spent a month in charge of Portugal but was astounded by the iconic forward (via GOAL):
"I've worked with many, but what sets Cristiano apart is the need to always be prepared to be the best. A contagious hunger, but very difficult to achieve."
Ronaldo's work ethic is one of his main attributes as are his passion for the game and motivation to be the best. These have helped him become one of history's greatest and most successful players.
The Real Madrid legend made his international debut in August 2003 aged 18. This was the start of a meteoric rise, leading to him winning titles in England, Spain, and Italy.
Ronaldo has flourished under Martinez and will be tasked with captaining Selecao to glory. He was handed a more withdrawn role at the back end of former manager Fernando Santos' reign but has reclaimed his starting spot.