Ronaldo, who has scored over 950 career goals and continues to lead the line for both Portugal and Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr, recently picked up a muscle injury that has sidelined him for a few weeks. The 41-year-old was consequently left out of Portugal\u2019s squad for the ongoing international friendlies as a precaution.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Despite the setback, Ronaldo has enjoyed a strong run of form this season, scoring consistently for his club and maintaining an impressive goals-per-game ratio. His performances have reinforced confidence in his availability for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he is expected to play a key role for the national side.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Rejecting claims of an obsession with individual milestones, Martinez pointed to Ronaldo\u2019s team-oriented approach during recent tournaments.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI don't agree with that. If Cristiano had played the European Championship focused on scoring a goal to break another record, the assist against Turkey for Bruno Fernandes wouldn't have happened,\u201d he said as quoted by Goal.com.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Martinez emphasised that the Portugal squad, especially its senior players, prioritises collective success over personal achievements.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIt's not true that our players have records or personal goals in mind. The only thing I saw at the European Championship was a different kind of responsibility in the more experienced players, a maximum responsibility to have a top performance in the tournament,\u201d he added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
When asked if Ronaldo had set any personal target, Martinez reiterated that such discussions were irrelevant to the player\u2019s mindset.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cNo, because I don't see Cris playing with the anxiety or intention of reaching 1,000 goals. Whether he has 950 or 1,050 goals, he has the same legacy. It won't change anything. That's outside talk,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Portugal coach further highlighted Ronaldo\u2019s decision-making and ability to create opportunities for teammates as key aspects of his game.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cNo, because I don't see Cris playing with the anxiety or intention of reaching 1,000 goals. Whether he has 950 or 1,050 goals, he has the same legacy. It won't change anything. That's outside talk,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Meanwhile, Portugal is placed in a tough group K with Uzbekistan and Colombia in the FIFA World Cup 2026. They will start their campaign on June 17. Ronaldo is expected to lead the side as they aim for their first World Cup trophy.<\/p>\r\n\r\n