Roberto Martinez Criticized for Allowing Cristiano Ronaldo Free Reign Amid Portugal’s Surprise Loss to Georgia

It’s safe to say that Georgia has risen up to be the underdog of the 2024 UEFA Euro. Who would have thought that their debut in the European competition would see them progress through the group stage and advance towards the round of 16? Well, all that became possible with their remarkable 2-0 victory over Portugal last night. While the Georgians bask in the glory of their achievement, Os Navegadores are in deep waters, especially Roberto Martinez, who has been criticized for letting Cristiano Ronaldo do ‘whatever he wants.’

The ESPN panel of Julien Laurens, Craig Burley, and Shaka Hislop reacted to Willy Sagnol’s side’s historic win over the 2016 winners. Interestingly, Burley’s first questioned CR7’s place in the team. “The Ronaldo role is still a concern…hasn’t been brilliant in the group stages. You would imagine he would have got a full rest today, but clearly, he decides pretty much when he plays,” he said.

The former Scottish star also highlighted the Al Nassr star throwing a tantrum on the touchline while being subbed off over a VAR moment. Burley believes that Ronaldo is more focused on his personal stats and scoring goals, but instead, it should be important for Portugal to be “fresh and strong.” He also questioned Martinez on how he would manage this situation when things get tight in the knockout stages.

Likewise, Laurens also asserted that Ronaldo would have played the whole game if it were up to him, something which would reflect badly on the manager. “If I’m Roberto Martinez, this is the wrong message I’m sending to my dressing room because everybody can see that Cristiano does whatever he wants,” concluded Laurens.

Unfortunately, the negative talking point doesn’t end here as Ronaldo has been urged to be benched to see Portugal win the Euros.

Is Cristiano Ronaldo holding back Roberto Martinez to lead Portugal?

ESPN journalist Mark Ogden argues that Portugal should think about life without Cristiano Ronaldo. He points out that the age of 39 has affected the mobile of the 5x Ballon d’Or winner. In fact, his longest-ever goal drought in his last six tournament games is a testament to this decline. Instead, Ogden suggests that Roberto Martinez could maximize Ronaldo’s impact by using him as a substitute.

Despite the unlikelihood of the ex-Belgium manager benching Ronaldo, the pundit urged Martinez to partner him with Goncalo Ramos at least. Additionally, Ogden believes that Portugal has everything to hit the ground running in the Euros and often underestimates themselves. However, there is one key problem with the team now: “Ronaldo is now more of a hindrance than a help,” he added.

Certainly, the air surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo has been quite negative. It remains to be seen whether he can turn things around. Otherwise, Roberto Martinez would be forced to make tough calls.