Cristiano Ronaldo will miss Portugal’s upcoming international friendlies after being left out of the squad due to a hamstring injury, raising fresh concerns ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 41-year-old forward, who plays for Al-Nassr, has been sidelined since late February. However, Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has downplayed fears over the veteran’s fitness, describing the injury as minor and assuring fans that his World Cup participation is not in doubt.
Speaking at a press conference, Martinez revealed that Ronaldo is expected to return to action within one to two weeks, adding that his physical condition throughout the season has remained impressive.
He also confirmed that Ronaldo will remain central to Portugal’s attacking plans at the tournament, alongside Goncalo Ramos, while the team continues its search for a third striker with a different playing profile.
Portugal are set to face Mexico on March 28 in Mexico City before taking on the United States in Atlanta three days later.
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According to Martinez, the fixtures represent the team’s final opportunity to fine-tune tactics and assess players before announcing the official World Cup squad.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19, will see Portugal compete in Group K alongside Colombia and Uzbekistan.
The final spot in the group will be decided through a playoff involving New Caledonia, Jamaica, or the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Despite Ronaldo’s temporary absence, Portugal have named a strong squad featuring key players such as Bruno Fernandes, Joao Felix, Rafael Leao, and Bernardo Silva, as they intensify preparations for the global tournament.
With the countdown to the World Cup underway, all eyes will be on Ronaldo’s recovery as Portugal aim to strike the right balance between experience and emerging talent.
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