Portugal Coach: "If Only We Could Have Cristiano Forever..."

Portugal's head coach, Roberto Martínez, views last year’s Nations League victory as a pivotal moment that could fuel the team’s success in upcoming matches—especially with the World Cup approaching rapidly this summer.

"It was essential for building confidence, increasing the team’s belief, and creating a special energy within the group. When we talk about the Nations League, it is the most difficult format. There are 10 matches over about 10 months, five different training camps, and the final stages are the result of a two-legged quarter-final in March. Then, playing against Germany in Germany—a place where we hadn't won in 25 years—and facing the European champions in the final. When you look at the complexity of the tournament, it’s a step that gives us incredible confidence for the future," the coach emphasized during a Portugal Football Summit podcast.

The Ronaldo Factor

Martínez highlighted the fundamental role of Cristiano Ronaldo in this success: "He will be the greatest Portuguese player of all time, whether he wins the World Cup or not. For us, the important thing is knowing how to give ourselves the best possible chance to fight for the title by constantly analyzing our standards and seeking improvement. That is the specific way he approaches every day and every opponent."

"I have never worked with a player who is so focused every single morning on using the day to improve. If we could have Cristiano forever, it would be the easiest way to train younger players joining the national team because he has that focus. His desire is to use every day to become stronger," the Spaniard added, before pivoting to the strength of the collective.

The "Winner" Mentality and Fatigue

"The difference between winning and not winning a trophy is minimal. Triumph allows you to eliminate uncertainty. The last thing you want in a locker room is for a player to feel unsure. When you don't win despite doing everything right, you're left with that unknown. We have so many players who have now experienced victory; it gives them the belief and understanding of what is required in those key moments of a match. This is an aspect that probably cannot be coached," he noted.

With increasingly crowded competitive calendars, Martínez also stressed the importance of player rest: "No one wants to back down, but everyone must. This isn't a battle between club and international competitions. This is about recognizing that a player needs three to four weeks of rest after the season ends. Period. The body needs it, the muscles need to recover, and there is mental fatigue that must be overcome."