Portugal national team manager Roberto Martinez has firmly pushed back against the notion that Cristiano Ronaldo continues his playing career primarily for financial gain or personal accolades. As Ronaldo approaches his sixth World Cup in 2026, questions about his motivation have become increasingly common. Martinez, however, sees a different driving force behind the 41-year-old superstar.

In an exclusive interview with Portuguese broadcaster Antena 1, Martinez stated unequivocally: 'Cristiano does not play for money, he does not play for titles, he plays to improve. And that is incredible.' This perspective sheds light on why Ronaldo remains a central figure in Portugal's plans despite his age and the emergence of younger talents.

Martinez elaborated further, saying: 'Cristiano Ronaldo can win the Champions League, the Golden Shoe, and the day after Cristiano tries to improve.' This mentality, according to Martinez, is what separates Ronaldo from most other athletes. Even after achieving virtually everything possible in football, Ronaldo's obsession with self-betterment has not diminished.

Ronaldo's Career: A Legacy Beyond Numbers

Cristiano Ronaldo's career statistics are staggering. He has won five Ballon d'Or awards, five Champions League titles, multiple league championships in England, Spain, and Italy, and led Portugal to victory in Euro 2016 and the 2019 Nations League. He is the all-time leading scorer in men's international football with over 130 goals for Portugal, and holds records in the Champions League for most goals, most assists, and most appearances.

Yet, according to Martinez, these achievements are not what drive Ronaldo. 'It is unique to have a journey of 22 years for the National Team, the number of games he is playing, there is no other player. It is the hunger,' Martinez said. 'We can measure everything from a player, but it is an aspect that is not possible.' This intangible hunger is what keeps Ronaldo pushing boundaries well into his forties.

Ronaldo's move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr in early 2023 was met with skepticism from some quarters. Critics argued that he was chasing a lucrative paycheck and stepping away from competitive football. However, his performances for Portugal have consistently silenced doubters. He scored vital goals during Euro 2024 qualifying and remains a key figure in Martinez's squad.

The Role of Money in Ronaldo's Decision-Making

While it is undeniable that Ronaldo's contract with Al-Nassr is one of the most lucrative in sports history – reportedly worth around €200 million per year – Martinez insists that financial considerations do not dictate Ronaldo's choices. 'Cristiano does not play for money,' Martinez repeated, emphasizing that the Portuguese star's motivation stems from a deeper internal drive.

This is not the first time Ronaldo has been questioned about his motives. Throughout his career, he has faced criticism for being selfish or overly ambitious, but he has always responded with outstanding performances. His work ethic is legendary: he is known for his strict diet, rigorous training regimen, and meticulous attention to recovery and preparation.

Ronaldo's longevity can be attributed to this discipline. He has adapted his playing style over the years, transitioning from a flashy winger to a lethal penalty-area poacher, and then to a more central forward role. Even now, at 41, he continues to score goals at an impressive rate for both club and country.

Martinez's Trust in Ronaldo for the 2026 World Cup

Portugal's path to the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is already underway. Martinez, who took over as Portugal manager after the 2022 World Cup, has made it clear that Ronaldo remains an integral part of his plans. 'His commitment still gives Martinez a reason to trust him,' the article notes.

Ronaldo's experience and leadership are invaluable for a squad that includes young stars like João Félix, Rafael Leão, and Vitinha. While Ronaldo may no longer play every minute of every game, his presence in the locker room and his ability to deliver in crucial moments make him a unique asset.

Martinez also highlighted Ronaldo's ability to inspire teammates. 'Cristiano is a role model for every player in the squad,' Martinez has said in other interviews. 'He shows them what it takes to be at the top for two decades.' This mentorship role is often overlooked when discussing Ronaldo's contribution.

The Evolution of Ronaldo's Role

As Ronaldo ages, his role has naturally evolved. Under previous manager Fernando Santos, he was often the focal point of attack, but Martinez has implemented a more fluid system. Ronaldo now operates as a central striker, with creative players providing support. He has also taken on more responsibility in the penalty area, using his intelligence and movement to find space.

Despite being 41, Ronaldo's physical condition remains remarkable. He has avoided major injuries and continues to maintain a physique that defies his age. His goal-scoring instinct has not waned; he still knows exactly where to be at the right time. In recent matches, he has scored crucial goals, including a hat-trick against Ireland in a friendly and a decisive strike against Croatia in the Nations League.

However, there have been moments where his frustration boils over. Ronaldo's emotional reactions to being substituted or not receiving the ball have been widely documented. But Martinez views this as a sign of his hunger rather than a negative. 'That passion is what makes him great,' Martinez said. 'He wants to be involved, he wants to help the team.'

Comparing Ronaldo to Other Legends

Martinez's comments also draw comparisons to other football icons who played well into their late thirties and early forties. Players like Zlatan Ibrahimović, Francesco Totti, and Ryan Giggs extended their careers by adapting their game, but few have matched Ronaldo's level of performance at such an advanced age.

Ibrahimović, who played until he was 41, often spoke about his love for the game rather than money. Similarly, Totti spent his entire career at Roma, driven by loyalty and passion. But Ronaldo's case is unique because he has moved across different leagues and cultures, constantly seeking new challenges.

Martinez's insight suggests that Ronaldo's drive is not merely about proving doubters wrong, but about an innate need to improve. This aligns with Ronaldo's own statements over the years. He has often said that he is his own toughest critic and that he sets higher standards for himself than anyone else could.

What This Means for Portugal's World Cup Hopes

With Ronaldo in the squad, Portugal enters the 2026 World Cup as one of the favorites. The team has depth, talent, and a manager who understands how to maximize Ronaldo's contributions. Martinez's trust in Ronaldo is a significant factor, as it ensures that the veteran striker remains motivated and engaged.

Portugal's group stage draw has not been announced yet, but they are expected to advance. The real test will come in the knockout rounds, where Ronaldo's experience can make the difference. His ability to score in high-pressure situations is well-documented: he has scored in multiple World Cups, European Championships, and Champions League finals.

Ronaldo's presence also gives Portugal a psychological edge. Opponents are often preoccupied with stopping him, which creates space for other players. This was evident in Euro 2024, where Portugal reached the semifinals before being eliminated on penalties by France.

Martinez's comments should reassure Portugal fans that Ronaldo is not just a figurehead, but a genuinely motivated competitor. The manager's words also serve as a message to critics who question whether Ronaldo's inclusion hinders the team's development. 'Cristiano is a part of our present and our future,' Martinez said. 'As long as he can contribute, he will be selected.'

Ronaldo's journey from a kid from Madeira to a global superstar is well-known, but his story is not yet complete. The 2026 World Cup could be his final chance to add the one major trophy that has eluded him: a World Cup winner's medal. For a player who has won everything else, that remains the ultimate motivation. However, Martinez insists that even that goal is not what drives Ronaldo – it is the process, not the prize.

'After winning the Champions League, he doesn't rest. He goes to training the next day thinking about how to get better,' Martinez noted. This relentless pursuit of improvement is what makes Ronaldo extraordinary, and it is why he continues to defy expectations. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Ronaldo's hunger remains undiminished, and so does his value to Portugal.

Source: Yahoo Sports News