Zlatan Ibrahimovic questions Cristiano Ronaldo’s role as Portugal progresses in the World Cup
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has questioned Portugal’s hopes of winning the World Cup, insisting Cristiano Ronaldo should no longer be leading the line despite the country’s progress to the round of 16, reports BritPanorama.
Ronaldo has played a pivotal role in helping Portugal reach the last 16 after Roberto Martinez’s side battled back to defeat Croatia 2-1, setting up a heavyweight encounter with Spain.
However, Ibrahimovic believes that Portugal’s continued reliance on the 41-year-old striker could ultimately hinder their chances as the tournament moves into its crucial stages.
Speaking to Goal, the former Sweden striker claimed that Portugal should explore options beyond Ronaldo and highlighted Goncalo Ramos as a potent alternative. “Portugal fans could have expected what’s happening. You can’t expect to win anything in 2026 with a 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo leading the attack,” he stated.
He escalated his criticism, adding, “This isn’t ‘legendary leadership.’ It’s the ego that’s holding the team hostage. Ronaldo has lost his touch and mobility. Now he’s just in the box… At this point, his aura is supporting him more than his legs. Continuing to start him is pure nostalgia-driven madness.”
Despite the scrutiny, Ronaldo’s contributions have been significant as Portugal seeks glory; he notably converted a penalty, helping to level the game against Croatia before a dramatic last-minute winner from Ramos secured their progression.
In the closing moments, Croatia nearly forced extra time with a goal that was ultimately ruled out following a VAR review, while Ronaldo’s historic penalty marked his first in the knockout rounds during his record-extending sixth World Cup appearance.
Portugal now pivot to a highly anticipated last-16 clash against Spain, where Martinez’s team will strive to maintain their World Cup aspirations amid ongoing debate over Ronaldo’s position in the starting XI.
As the tournament intensifies, the discourse surrounding star players and their evolving roles captures the intricate balance between legacy and performance — a dynamic that continues to define the tournament’s narrative.
