Ronaldo’s Status and Legacy
Cristiano Ronaldo, set to participate in his 11th major tournament for Portugal, has been labeled as one of the team’s ‘weakest links’ by Czech football legend Karel Poborsky. Despite an impressive season in the Saudi Pro League, where the 39-year-old scored 50 goals in 51 appearances for Al-Nassr, his place in Portugal’s starting lineup is under scrutiny as they prepare for their Euro 2024 opener against the Czech Republic.
Poborsky’s Criticism and Analysis
Poborsky, a former Czech Republic international with 118 caps and experience in three European Championships, believes Ronaldo’s inclusion could be advantageous for his national side. He argues that Ronaldo’s age and reduced ability to contribute to pressing and building play make him less effective compared to younger teammates like Diogo Jota, Goncalo Ramos, and Joao Felix.
“I have been saying for a long time that in that case he will be one of their weakest links,” Poborsky told The Czech News Agency. “The fans of both teams will go crazy for him, but at his age, he is not as good for building the game and pressing as his younger teammates. So our team would rather him start.”
Poborsky’s Perspective on Ronaldo’s Achievements and Age
While acknowledging Ronaldo’s remarkable career and achievements, Poborsky emphasizes the inevitability of age affecting performance. “Hats off to him for what he has achieved – thanks to his enormous self-confidence. But you can’t stop age, he is 39.”
Poborsky also referenced previous tensions between Ronaldo and former Portugal coach Fernando Santos during the World Cup in Qatar, suggesting potential challenges for current coach Roberto Martinez.
READ ALSO
Cristiano Ronaldo Sets New Record in Saudi Pro League, Claims Records Follow Him
Portugal’s Chances at Euro 2024
Despite his criticism of Ronaldo, Poborsky still considers Portugal as one of the strong contenders for the Euro 2024 title. “Portugal is one hundred percent among the three, four biggest favorites of the championship,” he stated. He expects Portugal to play aggressively from the start, with tactics that include a lot of running without the ball and quick transitions to attack, posing threats even from a deep defensive block.
As Portugal gears up for their clash against the Czech Republic, the debate over Ronaldo’s role and effectiveness continues to be a focal point, adding an extra layer of intrigue to their Euro 2024 campaign.