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Friedel: Ronaldo's decline could cost Portugal
11 Apr
Summary
- Former goalkeeper Brad Friedel doubts Ronaldo's 2026 World Cup impact.
- Friedel contrasts Ronaldo's defensive contribution with Messi's.
- Managing Ronaldo's presence poses a significant challenge.
Former Liverpool and Tottenham goalkeeper Brad Friedel has raised questions about Cristiano Ronaldo's potential role in the 2026 World Cup. Friedel believes that despite Ronaldo's physical fitness, his current style of play might become a hindrance to the Portuguese national team.
Friedel highlighted that Ronaldo's contribution, especially defensively, is limited compared to Lionel Messi's. He stated that selecting Ronaldo means facing elite teams with effectively ten players, a significant disadvantage for any manager. The dilemma of benching such a prominent figure is also acknowledged, as it would dominate tournament narratives.
He concluded that unlike Messi, whose teams have historically been built to accommodate his free movement, Ronaldo's continued inclusion without a strong defensive effort poses a considerable challenge for Portugal in the 2026 World Cup.
