Portugal’s reliance on Ronaldo’s goals has diminished in recent years, highlighted by his benching for most of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar by then-coach Fernando Santos. After the tournament, Santos was replaced, and under new manager Roberto Martinez, the Al-Nassr forward has been more actively involved, leading the team as captain. Former Tottenham manager Redknapp believes Ronaldo can propel Portugal to a strong performance in Germany but cautions that Bruno Fernandes could outshine him in the race for the Golden Boot.
Speaking to BetVictor, Redknapp said, “The team that interests me is Portugal. I think they’ve got a lot of good players. You look at their squad and there’s some real quality there so they’re definitely one to keep an eye on for me. Apart from England, they’d be my next pick.”
“Cristiano Ronaldo is obviously now playing at a slightly different level to before, out in Saudi Arabia, but he’s an amazing athlete and he’s still as fit as a fiddle because he looks after himself so well. I can see him scoring goals at the tournament and I can see him taking Portugal a long way this year.”
“I also think Bruno Fernandes could be fantastic value for the Golden Boot award – he will score goals. He won’t take penalties because I suppose Ronaldo will grab the ball, but I’d definitely have an interest in him at a big price for the Golden Boot.”
Portugal may not be favourites heading into the tournament, but a successful run into the knockout stages could change their prospects, similar to Euro 2016, when they won despite a slow start.
Ronaldo, Portugal’s all-time top scorer, has had an impressive season with Al-Nassr, setting a new record for the most goals in a single Saudi Pro League season. Fernandes has been equally influential at Manchester United. The duo will aim to combine their efforts and achieve success for Portugal in Germany.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro
This season he played in total 4 times for 412 minutes for Kings Cup.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored 3 goals for Al Nassr. He procured no assists. He received 1 yellow card and no red cards.
His team is currently 2nd in Kings Cup. In the last match Al Nassr won 4-2 against Al Ittihad.