Martinez Labels Ronaldo the Greatest Ever

Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has delivered a passionate defense of his captain, declaring Cristiano Ronaldo the undisputed “Greatest of All Time” (GOAT).

Speaking ahead of the 2026 World Cup preparations, Martinez insisted that Ronaldo’s legacy is already cemented, regardless of whether he lifts the trophy in North America this summer.

The GOAT Debate

Martinez addressed the frequent comparisons between Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, emphasizing that the Portuguese star’s career stands alone.

• Beyond the Trophy: “He will be the greatest player ever, whether he wins the World Cup or not,” Martinez stated. He argued that Ronaldo’s impact on football history cannot be measured by a single tournament.

• Elite Longevity: At 41 years old, Ronaldo remains the focal point of the Portuguese attack. Martinez highlighted his incredible efficiency, noting that the striker has netted 25 goals in his last 30 international appearances.

The “Daily Obsession” with Improvement

Having worked closely with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner since 2023, Martinez expressed awe at the veteran’s work ethic.

• The Routine: Martinez claimed he has never seen a player with such a singular focus on self-improvement every single morning.

• A Mentor Figure: The coach described Ronaldo as a “gift” to the national team, serving as a living blueprint for young talents entering the squad. “If we could have Cristiano forever, it would be the easiest way to help young players,” he added.

Tactical Evolution

Martinez also explained how Ronaldo has adapted his game to remain elite at the highest level.

• From Winger to Finisher: The manager noted that the Ronaldo of 21 years ago is gone, replaced by a highly intelligent positional striker.

• The Ultimate Finisher: Portugal’s system is now designed to maximize Ronaldo’s movement in the box, utilizing him as the world’s premier “action finisher.”