Jose Mourinho has sharply criticized Portugal following their goalless draw with Mexico.
The ex-manager did not hold back after the 0-0 result last Saturday, questioning the team’s strength in the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo, who is recovering from a hamstring injury.
Portugal found it hard to create scoring opportunities, managing only 10 shots despite having periods of possession.
Mourinho expressed his frustration with the team’s performance.
Jose Mourinho questions Portugal without Cristiano Ronaldo
Photo by Agustin Cuevas/Getty Images
Mourinho’s comments were clear and straightforward.
According to GOAL, he stated: “Without Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal looks like any basic team.
“People keep saying to stop calling him up. Well, he didn’t play today, and you saw the result. No threat, no fear from the opposition. Just a team under pressure from Mexico.”
He concluded: “With Ronaldo on the pitch, the opposition thinks twice. Without him, they don’t think at all.”
His remarks highlight the influence Ronaldo still has on the team.
Portugal’s lack of attacking edge against Mexico seemed to confirm this perspective.
However, it is crucial to note the context of the line-up.
Key players like Diogo Costa, Rafael Leao, Bernardo Silva, and Ruben Dias were missing.
Roberto Martinez also made changes to the squad, leaving Joao Neves and Vitinha on the bench.
Portugal’s talent suggests higher ceiling without Cristiano Ronaldo
Despite the criticism, Portugal has one of their most talented generations in history.
Bruno Fernandes is considered Manchester United’s top player, while Vitinha and Joao Neves have grown into elite midfielders at PSG.
Bernardo Silva leads Manchester City, and Nuno Mendes is highly regarded as one of the best left-backs in the world.
With these players and more, Portugal has the depth to compete at a high level even without Ronaldo.
The challenge now is to transform that talent into consistent results.