Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to lead Portugal at the 2026 World Cup, despite current injury worries. Head coach Roberto Martinez believes the captain will be available for the finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico. If Ronaldo features there, it will be a record sixth World Cup appearance.

Ronaldo is Portugal’s record scorer with 143 international goals and remains central to the squad’s plans. Portugal struggled without the forward in the recent 0-0 draw against Mexico, missing the attacking edge usually provided. Martinez’s team could not turn pressure into goals in that match.

The forward is out with a hamstring problem and missed this international window. Some observers fear the issue could keep Ronaldo sidelined until the World Cup begins in June. Martinez reduced those concerns by outlining a shorter possible timeline for a return to training.

Martinez explained that Ronaldo’s exact future with Portugal remains unclear, but the short-term aim is clear. “It’s difficult to say, with Ronaldo, I learned not to predict the future, he said. He tries to be the best today. He has a muscle injury; he may be able to return to training within a week.”

Defender Ruben Dias and full-back Nelson Semedo are also unavailable, adding to Portugal’s fitness concerns. Despite these absences, Martinez stressed that the squad must be ready with or without Ronaldo. The coach wants the team prepared for any scenario during the build-up to the World Cup.

Martinez underlined Ronaldo’s leadership, describing the importance of the captain’s voice and example. “He is our captain and is very important, very influential. He still plays a fundamental role as captain. The way he finishes, his mentality, he inspires. I don’t know when the end will come.”

The Portugal coach rejected the idea that Ronaldo is merely an ageing squad figure. “He’s not a 41-year-old player; he’s a player who tries to improve every day. He’s a stimulus off the pitch and on the pitch, a striker who has scored 25 goals in the last 30 games.”

Martinez also pointed out how form and fitness can shift before a major tournament. “Like any player, a lot can happen before you get to the World Cup, injuries, periods of poor form. Now it’s about staying calm. The team is made strong with the players who will compete in the event.”

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Portugal’s recent draw with Mexico highlighted the challenge of replacing Ronaldo’s output in front of goal. The team had 10 attempts, worth 1.4 expected goals, yet only two efforts hit the target. Goncalo Ramos, Joao Felix, Bruno Fernandes and Francisco Conceicao all struggled to break down Mexico’s defence.

Cristiano Ronaldo Portugal World Cup preparations

Next, Portugal meet World Cup co-hosts the United States in a friendly on Tuesday in Atlanta. Martinez will seek a sharper attacking display than against Mexico. The match offers further preparation for the finals and another chance to test options during Ronaldo’s recovery period.

Martinez insisted that Portugal must be confident in the broader squad while also valuing Ronaldo’s presence. The coach expects the captain to remain central, on and off the pitch, if fit for June. Portugal’s build-up now focuses on restoring injured players and improving efficiency in front of goal.