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Former striker Chris Sutton has issued strong criticism of Portugal manager Roberto Martinez ahead of their World Cup knockout encounter with Croatia, calling his continued dependence on Cristiano Ronaldo “completely embarrassing”. Sutton argued that Martinez is limiting the potential of his talented squad by constantly accommodating Ronaldo and refusing to substitute him despite his reduced influence on the field.

Mounting criticism for Roberto Martinez

Former Premier League forward Sutton launched a scathing assessment of Martinez’s handling of Ronaldo during the ongoing World Cup. Speaking to BBC Sport, Sutton did not mince words when discussing the relationship between the coach and his captain.

Although Martinez has a deep pool of attacking talent to choose from, he has opted to keep Ronaldo on the pitch for every single minute of the tournament so far. This steadfast approach has generated widespread debate as Portugal prepare to face Croatia in a vital last-32 clash on Sunday. Sutton believes that such unwavering loyalty could actually harm the overall balance and performance of the team.

Sutton questions the Portugal manager

The pundit emphasised the exceptional quality within the Portuguese squad, indicating that their true potential is being constrained. Sutton told BBC Sport: “Cristiano Ronaldo is 41 but has played every minute for Portugal so far, which I think is embarrassing for Roberto Martinez. I’ve never seen a manager pander to a player as much as he does. Portugal have some incredible footballers but, as great as Ronaldo once was, they are being held back by keeping him permanently on the pitch as their centre-forward.”

These pointed remarks reflect a growing frustration among observers who feel that Portugal possess the depth to thrive without total dependence on their veteran star.

Expectations for the Croatia clash

Despite his sharp criticism of Martinez, Sutton still anticipates Portugal will edge past their opponents. Croatia themselves are navigating challenges with an ageing core and are no longer the powerhouse side seen in earlier tournaments.

Even though Sutton feels Ronaldo is past his prime, he recognised football’s tendency for poetic outcomes. Predicting a narrow 1-0 win for Portugal in normal time, Sutton suggested—ironically—that Ronaldo would likely score the decisive goal, defying the criticism surrounding his continued selection.

What lies ahead for Portugal?

Portugal will take to the field in Toronto on Sunday seeking to book their place in the last 16. Should Martinez’s side overcome Croatia, they will progress deeper into the tournament and temporarily silence detractors. However, an early exit would intensify scrutiny on Martinez’s tactics and his persistent faith in Ronaldo on the world stage.