For Martínez, Ronaldo’s spot in the lineup is based on facts. He is very professional each and every day; he is a very disciplined player, and he has an incredible ability to finish off games (in terms of putting the ball in the back of the net).
When asked how he could explain why Ronaldo still starts for the national team and why he gets so much playing time, Martínez simply looked at the stats for Ronaldo in recent games. “Look at all the goals he’s been scoring lately – it’s incredible,” Martínez said. “His killer instinct inside the box is still alive and well, no doubt. His desire to be the best is contagious for everyone around him.”
In addition to praising Ronaldo for his goal-scoring, Martínez also said that he is impressed by the 40 year-old’s tactical awareness.
In the type of system that Portugal currently employs (heavy possession-based, lots of short passing) the striker needs to position himself properly throughout the game to open up space for other players.
Martínez said that Ronaldo positions himself extremely well, and with a great deal of discipline.
Martínez also addressed the issue of Ronaldo’s mental approach.
At 40 years old, Martínez said that Ronaldo arrives to practice like he is 20 years old — full of energy, hungry to get better, and completely obsessed with winning.
That drive, the coach said, is what motivates the younger players on the Portuguese national team to improve their own game.
Despite calls from many experts that the young players should be given a chance to play in front of the goal line, Martínez will not budge — as long as Ronaldo continues to deliver results and demonstrates this kind of commitment to the national team, he will remain the backbone of Portugal’s offense.
