“Age is just a number: Ronaldo and Modric are above public opinion”

TORONTO - Roberto Martínez is set to face Luka Modric for the fifth time as a national team coach, having done so with both Belgium and Portugal. He asserts that both players are icons and that age is merely a number.

- Croatia is a European opponent, and Portugal will face them in very hot conditions. Could this be an advantage?

- There are no advantages at the World Cup. Our preparation involved training in Palm Beach with high humidity; here, we'll also have significant heat, but less humidity. The World Cup is demanding, and the team is prepared for anything. By July 1st, we need to be ready for all scenarios. We know Croatia very well, and they also know our strengths. It will be a competitive match, with the added importance of being a knockout game in the World Cup.

- You've faced Croatia multiple times, and Modric has been a constant in those matches. What are your thoughts on the Croatian captain?

- We are talking about players who transcend public opinion. They are global icons. Their longevity makes them special. Luka Modric, even over 40, continues to play many games. It's the same with our captain, Cristiano Ronaldo. Age is just a number. What truly matters is what they do and the importance they hold as role models in the dressing room. Modric is an inspiration for millions of athletes and new generations of footballers.