Ronaldo and Gonçalo Ramos: Martínez on Minute Management

Portugal's national coach, Roberto Martínez, previewed Wednesday morning's World Cup 2026 Group K opener against DR Congo. When asked about potentially rotating minutes between Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonçalo Ramos in the national team's attack, Martínez indicated that player management would be essential.

“We need to manage every player's minutes game by game, day by day. Playing a match with five days between fixtures isn't the same as three. We must analyze the personal situation, whether it's a demanding game or not. We have a responsibility to manage all minutes based on what happens daily,” the coach explained.

With Rúben Dias currently injured, Roberto Martínez addressed whether he regretted only bringing four central defenders. “I have no regrets, because we have three center-backs, and Rúben Dias, who is doing well — now we just need to manage the knock he took — and also players who can play at center-back. We've already used Rúben Neves, Diogo Dalot. Our squad's versatility is greater than trying to bring in a new player who lacks international experience and isn't clear on our tactical approach. For us, reaching the World Cup means 40 games. It's been a very meticulous process. It's not a lack of focus, or failing to evaluate and analyze everything we have and might need during the World Cup,” he stated.

“I am very pleased, very happy with the players, with their attitude, with the work done, with what we have. What I observe during training, not only in individual quality but also in team spirit and the responsibility they show, is a very good balance between the emotional aspect of representing Portugal and the rational aspect of preparing well for games, having great clarity on what we need to do tomorrow. This makes the preparation period we just concluded leave the entire technical staff and me very happy,” he added.