“They Don’t Need (Cristiano) Ronaldo)” – Doubts Cast Over CR7’s Euro Impact as Portugal Not the Favorites for MLS Legend

Cristiano Ronaldo has cemented himself as Portugal’s greatest-ever player. But at 39 years old, CR7 might not be the man to build your team around. Joao Cancelo said recently, “The national team does not depend entirely on him (Ronaldo)”, highlighting his current standing on the side. His rich form for Al Nassr meant that CR7 was named in the Portuguese team for the Euros. Yet, a USMNT legend believes that the soccer icon won’t help Portugal win the coveted trophy.

In the State of the Union Podcast, former USMNT star Alexi Lalas and pundit David Mosse revealed their favorites for Euro 2024. As per Lalas, France, England, and Spain remain the contenders and tier 1 teams. In Tier 2 comes, Portugal and Germany. Lalas then posed the question, “Can Cristiano lead this Portugal team to success this summer.” Mosse offered a very interesting response to the question.

The pundit said, “There still is this question at the highest level can Cristiano Ronaldo still make the difference. I don’t think so.”A bold take but Mosse added that Portugal doesn’t even need CR7 to be the difference maker. He explained, “The good news with this Portugal team is they have so much talent otherwise.” The expert named the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva,  Rafael Leao, Vitinha, and Joao Felix as the players to watch out for. Consequently, he added, “They don’t need Ronaldo to be great, to quote-unquote carry them.”

Notably, Mosse isn’t the first pundit to undermine Cristiano Ronaldo’s importance to Portugal. In fact, a French legend believes that CR7 can be a hindrance to Portugal’s Euro chances.

Frank Leboeuf reveals what Cristiano Ronaldo’s role should be in Euro 2024

Cristiano Ronaldo has been in fine form recently and is the Golden Boot winner in the Saudi League. Yet, legendary defender Frank Leboeuf isn’t impressed. The pundit added that Portugal is a major contender for Euro provided CR7 is on the bench. He said, “I actually think they can win the Euros, but only if Cristiano Ronaldo doesn’t play. I think his time for Portugal is done.”

It remains to be seen how Roberto Martinez approaches the situation. Ronaldo has been in great form for the Spanish form. Moreover, he is the undisputed leader of the team. Yet, Martinez has plenty of great alternatives like Goncalo Ramos should he need so. After all, CR7 was benched by Ramos in Qatar 2022 by Fernando Santos. Will Martinez repeat the tactic? Let’s wait and watch.