Roberto Martínez is set to announce his latest Portugal squad. The announcement will take place this Tuesday. The squad list is for the World Cup.
Martínez’s Approach to Selection
Martínez is not expected to make any shocking surprises in his selection. He likes to stick with the same players. It took him a while to recognise that it was worth calling up athletes without a history in the national team, despite proven performances and important titles won at club level.
Francisco Trincão and Pedro Gonçalves took time to earn his trust. Now it would be strange if they did not contribute to making the national vice-champions one of the most named emblems in the call-up.
Sporting CP’s Strong Representation
Rui Silva and Gonçalo Inácio are guaranteed in the defensive plan. Only PSG will rival Sporting CP in terms of representation. Nuno Mendes, João Neves, Vitinha and Gonçalo Ramos are key players.
Especially the first three.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Role in the Team
Cristiano Ronaldo’s role within the team is under scrutiny. The captain rarely benefits from the presence of a second forward (Ramos). He also needs someone dedicated to pressuring the opponent’s defence. That player must offer a level of finishing that is compatible with the quality of the attacking organisation.
Martínez has experimented with different tactical formations. These formations have not always provided comfort to Cristiano Ronaldo. He is often too exposed to the central defenders who single him out as the main threat. This intensifies the close marking he invariably faces.
Nuno Mendes’s tendency to drift inside from his traditional left-back position forces João Félix to be vigilant in defensive cover. This impacts his supporting movements for Ronaldo.
These shortcomings are less noticeable when Neves, Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha perform well. Bernardo Silva’s technical and tactical excellence also helps.
Challenges Ahead
Portugal should have room to enjoy themselves in the initial matches in the United States. This advantage may diminish as they progress in the tournament.
A true title contender must demonstrate multiple resources. They cannot rely solely on their most celebrated player.