Joao Cancelo has supported Cristiano Ronaldo’s inclusion in Portugal’s World Cup plans, despite recent doubts about his absence from pre-tournament matches.
Portugal is preparing for the 2026 World Cup with one of their strongest squads in years, leading to discussions about Ronaldo’s role at this stage of his career.
Cancelo’s remarks indicate that there is strong support for Ronaldo from within the team, with senior players still seeing him as an essential part of the group.
Although recent player selections have raised questions, the reasoning behind them reveals a different perspective.
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Joao Cancelo supports Cristiano Ronaldo for Portugal World Cup
According to Fabrizio Romano, Cancelo expressed his view on Ronaldo’s significance.
“We should be among the top favorites to win the World Cup 2026 with the quality of players we have. Cristiano Ronaldo as well? Of course, yes,” Cancelo stated.
This statement shows the respect Ronaldo still garners within the team, as his experience remains crucial even with a younger attacking squad emerging.
Cancelo’s remarks highlight an important point. Ronaldo is still seen as part of the solution, in contrast to the external perception regarding his recent absence.
Reason for Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence before Portugal friendlies
Ronaldo missed Portugal’s recent pre-World Cup friendlies due to a minor hamstring issue, as the coaching staff decided to rest him to avoid worsening the injury ahead of the tournament.
The matches against the United States and Mexico served to evaluate other attacking options, with Ronaldo’s absence understood to be a fitness-related precaution rather than a decision based on performance.
This strategy shows careful management of player workload. As he nears the later stages of his career, staying in top condition for major tournaments is a priority.
Portugal has used this time to develop depth, allowing players like Goncalo Ramos and Rafael Leao to take on more responsibilities in these matches.
However, there is no indication that Ronaldo has been removed from long-term plans, with expectations that he will be part of the squad for the 2026 World Cup if he remains fit.