The World Cup spotlight always burns brightest on legends, but for Cristiano Ronaldo, his sixth appearance has ignited a fiery debate: is the Portugal icon now a tactical liability rather than an indispensable superstar?
\n\nKey Points:
\n- \n
- Paul Scholes has publicly labelled Cristiano Ronaldo a "problem" for Portugal manager Roberto Martinez. \n
- The former Manchester United star believes a 41-year-old Ronaldo should be limited to the final 15 minutes of matches. \n
- Scholes suggests Ronaldo is "pissed off" by the scintillating starts of rivals Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé. \n
- Despite the criticism, Roberto Martinez remains steadfast, defending his captain's crucial role and unmatched goal-scoring instincts. \n
Scholes Unleashes Scathing Critique on Ronaldo's Role
\nThe football world collectively held its breath as Portugal stuttered to a 1-1 draw against a resilient DR Congo in their opening World Cup fixture. While Joao Neves netted an early opener, Yoane Wissa quickly equalized, leaving the five-time Ballon d'Or winner, Cristiano Ronaldo, at the epicenter of intense scrutiny.
\n\nLegendary midfielder Paul Scholes minced no words, articulating a widespread concern. Speaking on 'The Good, The Bad & The Football' podcast, Scholes openly questioned Ronaldo's effectiveness at 41 years of age. "I think it’s difficult for the manager," Scholes admitted, recalling a prior off-camera conversation with Roberto Martinez. "I feel he is a little bit of a problem... There’s only one position on the pitch at 41 years of age where you should be starting a game, and that’s goalkeeper, for me." This blunt assessment highlights the increasing physical demands of elite international football.
\n\nThe Weight of Rivalry: Messi and Mbappé Shine
\nThe pressure on Ronaldo isn't just internal; it's amplified by the dazzling performances of his long-standing rivals. While the Al-Nassr forward struggled to register a single shot or successful duel in the first half against DR Congo, both Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé exploded out of the blocks.
\n\nMessi famously bagged a hat-trick, while Mbappé secured a brace in their respective opening games. Scholes believes these exploits are undoubtedly "killing" Ronaldo. "Cristiano will be so pissed off because Lionel Messi got a hat-trick, Kylian Mbappé got two… it will be killing him," he asserted. The former England international empathized with Martinez, suggesting the Portugal boss, despite publicly backing Ronaldo, likely knows his presence "is hurting his team" in certain tactical aspects.
\n\nIs Ronaldo a Tactical Liability at 41?
\nAt the heart of Scholes's argument lies the contention that Ronaldo's age fundamentally clashes with Portugal's need for a high-intensity, transitional style of play. The sheer physical toll of leading the line for 90 minutes at the highest level, particularly for a forward, is simply too great. Scholes argued that while Ronaldo can still score in possession-dominant systems, his movement in "transition games" becomes a significant hindrance.
\n\n"He is going to score goals in a team that has possession, but in transition games, his movement at 41 is a problem," Scholes elaborated. He reiterated his belief that Ronaldo is best utilized as an impact substitute, playing the "last 15 minutes" to capitalize on tired defenses. This strategic deployment, according to Scholes, would free up Portugal's other attacking talents to operate with greater dynamism and pace.
\n\nMartinez's Unwavering Faith in His Captain
\nDespite the escalating debate and an understated performance, Roberto Martinez has remained resolute in his support for Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portugal manager shows no indication of dropping his captain for their upcoming group stage clash against Uzbekistan. Martinez publicly defended his decision to keep Ronaldo on the pitch for the entire duration of the DR Congo draw, emphasizing his irreplaceable qualities.
\n\nMartinez told reporters, "The lead attacker needs to be close to the six-yard box, and we need to get the ball to him. It makes no sense to get the best goalscorer in world football out in a game in which you need goals." He underscored Ronaldo's experience in the box, his ability to "attract defenders," and his pivotal role in creating space for others. For Martinez, when goals are needed, Ronaldo's presence is non-negotiable.
