Ronaldo's World Cup intensity like a first-timer, says Portugal coach Martinez

Cristiano Ronaldo, at 41, is preparing for his sixth World Cup with the intensity of a first-time participant, according to Portugal coach Roberto Martinez. Martinez lauded the veteran forward as a crucial example and reference for football, particularly for aspiring young players.

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He is an example and a reference for football. For all those children on the street who begin to feel the love for sport, following the example of Cristiano Ronaldo is wonderful.

Despite questions surrounding Ronaldo's current impact, especially his nine-game goal drought in major tournaments and limited defensive contribution, Martinez firmly believes he remains Portugal's best option upfront. "He is an example and a reference for football," Martinez stated. "For all those children on the street who begin to feel the love for sport, following the example of Cristiano Ronaldo is wonderful."

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It is his sixth World Cup, but I can say that internally it seems to be his first World Cup in terms of intensity, in terms of emotional output, of how important it is for him to be prepared to lead the group.

Martinez highlighted Ronaldo's vital role within the team, describing him as the finisher and the player in the penalty area who creates space for others. "Within our attacking game, his numbers reflect the importance he has," the coach added. Teammate Bruno Fernandes echoed this sentiment, calling it an honor to play alongside Ronaldo, a player he idolized growing up. "We're all here to support him and to support Portugal to go as far as possible," Fernandes said.

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Within the team he is a vital player because he is the finisher, he is the player in the penalty area, he is the player who has those movements that can open spaces for other players. Within our attacking game, his numbers reflect the importance he has.

Fernandes also spoke about the team's strong collective spirit and individual quality, noting their cohesive and united front. "Obviously our dream is to be there (winning the World Cup) and I think that dreaming is not forbidden," he remarked. Portugal faces DR Congo, Uzbekistan, and Colombia in Group K, with Martinez cautioning against complacency after other teams' unexpected results.

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All of us in this national team we have grown up watching Cristiano Ronaldo play and for us it's such an honor to play next to him now in the same team.