Zlatan Ibrahimovic has openly questioned Cristiano Ronaldo’s continued presence in Portugal’s national team, suggesting that the star forward is being selected more out of sentiment than current performance. The former Sweden striker argued that Goncalo Ramos’ match-winning goal against Croatia demonstrated that Portugal should look beyond Ronaldo.
Ibrahimovic questions Ronaldo’s selection
Following Portugal’s 2-1 win over Croatia, Ibrahimovic delivered a sharp critique of Ronaldo’s role under coach Roberto Martinez. Speaking on Fox Sports, the ex-AC Milan and Manchester United forward claimed that expecting Portugal to compete for major trophies with a 41-year-old Ronaldo leading the line was unrealistic. He further implied that the Al-Nassr striker’s selection was based on his reputation rather than his present form.
Ibrahimovic’s harsh assessment
The outspoken Swede used Portugal’s narrow victory as an opportunity to challenge Martinez’s persistence with Ronaldo. He pointed out that Goncalo Ramos’ decisive goal should convince Portugal to refresh their attacking approach, warning that the team’s loyalty to their captain was becoming a burden.
“Portugal fans could have seen this coming,” Ibrahimovic said. “You cannot expect to win anything in 2026 with a 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo leading the line. Especially when Ramos is sitting on the bench and comes on to score.
“This isn’t about leadership anymore; it’s ego holding the team hostage. Ronaldo has lost his speed and movement. Now he just stays inside the box. At this stage, it’s his reputation carrying him, not his legs. Continuing to start him is pure nostalgia-driven madness.”
Portugal escape Croatian test
Despite internal debates about Ronaldo’s role, Portugal were fortunate to edge past Croatia in the round of 32. The match in Toronto was filled with drama, particularly when Josko Gvardiol’s late equaliser was ruled out for offside after a lengthy VAR review. The decision sparked outrage from Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic, whose side was denied a 113th-minute leveller.
Ronaldo did manage to contribute by scoring a penalty to make it 1-1 after Ivan Perisic had given Croatia the lead. Portugal eventually sealed the win through Ramos’ late strike.
Spain up next
Portugal now face a challenging last-16 clash against Spain, a match that will intensify scrutiny on Martinez’s choices. All eyes will be on whether the Portuguese coach dares to bench Ronaldo or continues to entrust him with leading the attack.
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