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Zlatan Ibrahimovic has cast doubt on Cristiano Ronaldo's continued presence in the Portugal national team, suggesting that the 41-year-old Al-Nassr forward is being chosen more for sentimental reasons than for his current ability. The former Sweden striker believes Goncalo Ramos’ match-winning performance against Croatia clearly demonstrates that Portugal should begin to look beyond their long-time talisman.

Ibrahimovic questions Ronaldo’s spot in the squad

Following Portugal’s 2-1 triumph over Croatia, Ibrahimovic offered an unfiltered critique of Ronaldo’s influence and legitimacy within the team. Speaking as a Fox Sports pundit, the ex-AC Milan and Manchester United star argued that Portugal cannot realistically aim for titles if they continue to depend on Ronaldo, who is now 41. According to Ibrahimovic, the Al-Nassr striker’s inclusion is based on his legendary status rather than his current form or contribution.

Ibrahimovic’s harsh assessment

The outspoken Swede used Portugal’s victory as an opportunity to challenge head coach Roberto Martinez’s faith in Ronaldo. He highlighted Goncalo Ramos’ decisive goal as evidence that the team needs a fresh attacking approach, insisting that Portugal are limiting their potential by persisting with their ageing captain.

“Portugal fans could have seen this coming,” Ibrahimovic remarked. “You can’t expect to win anything in 2026 with a 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo leading the attack. Especially when Ramos is sitting on the bench and comes on to score the winner.

“This is not ‘legendary leadership’. It’s ego keeping the team hostage. Ronaldo has lost his sharpness and movement. Now he only lingers in the box. At this stage, his reputation is doing more work than his legs. Continuing to start him is pure nostalgia-driven madness.”

Portugal survive Croatia scare

Despite the internal debate surrounding Ronaldo’s place, Portugal narrowly advanced past Croatia in the round of 32. The encounter in Toronto was full of drama, particularly when Josko Gvardiol’s late strike was disallowed for offside after an extended VAR check. The decision enraged Croatia’s manager Zlatko Dalic, whose team was denied a 113th-minute equaliser.

Ronaldo did manage to make an impact, calmly scoring from the penalty spot to level the match after Ivan Perisic had put Croatia ahead. Eventually, Goncalo Ramos sealed the win for Portugal in the final moments.

Spain awaits as the next challenge

Portugal now turn their focus to a last-16 clash with Spain, a matchup that will further magnify the scrutiny on Roberto Martinez’s tactical decisions. The key question remains whether the Portuguese coach will make the bold move to start Ramos over Ronaldo or continue to rely on his veteran captain to lead the line.