Yardbarker
x

Cristiano Ronaldo Named In First Portugal Squad Picked By New Manager Roberto Martinez

Originally posted on FanNation Futbol
By Robert Summerscales  |  Last updated 3/18/23

Roberto Martinez has included Cristiano Ronaldo in his first squad as Portugal manager.

Martinez, who was appointed to replace Fernando Santos in January, named a 26-man party on Friday for this month's Euro 2024 qualifiers against Liechtenstein and Luxembourg.

Ronaldo, 38, is the second oldest member of the squad, after former Real Madrid teammate Pepe.

Martinez told reporters that Ronaldo "is very important for the team", adding: "I do not look at the age".

Ronaldo is Portugal's most-capped male footballer of all-time, having played for his country 196 times.

He holds the world record for most men's international goals, with 118.

But Ronaldo was dropped to the bench by former manager Santos for both of Portugal's knockout games at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

After the tournament, Ronaldo signed for Al Nassr and has scored eight goals in his first nine games for the Saudi club.

SEE MORE: Watch Every Cristiano Ronaldo Goal For Al Nassr In 2022/23 Saudi Pro League Season

This article first appeared on FanNation Futbol and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

+

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.