Portugal midfielder says Ronaldo “can give us things” as his national side target the World Cup trophy in 2026
Bruno Fernandes believes Portugal are a better team without Cristiano Ronaldo despite ongoing debate about the superstar’s place in the national side.
Portugal recorded a thumping 9-1 win over Armenia in their final World Cup qualifier last month while Ronaldo was suspended, and the result reignited discussion about whether the team performs better without a 40-year-old leading the line.
“Cristiano inside the box continues to be a very high-level player,” Fernandes told Canal 11. “He draws defenders and creates space for other players.
“I know people think that we play better without Ronaldo, that the players are freer and more fluid. I think that if that happens it’s partly our fault. We can’t worry if Cristiano is on the pitch, because Cristiano can give us things.”
Fernandes added that Portugal’s attacking options have different qualities, with each player making a unique contribution.
“If Cristiano doesn’t play and Goncalo [Ramos] does, Goncalo is strong in pressing and good at diagonal runs,” said Manchester United’s captain. “When I’m not playing and Bernardo [Silva] is playing as a No 10, Bernardo gives you more possession, I make more of a final pass. It’s all like that. All players add things and take away others.”
Portugal’s current squad has been rated as one of their best ever, with talent all over from attack to goal. They won the Uefa Nations League last summer, beating Euro 2024 champions and one of the World Cup favourites Spain in the final. It is probably Ronaldo’s best-ever, and certainly his last, chance to win the coveted global prize. Fernandes said expectations were high but welcomed the pressure.
“We dream of winning the World Cup and that responsibility is positive,” said Fernandes. “We must close ranks as a group and figure out where to improve, and understand that the World Cup won’t be perfect.”
