Desk Correspondent , Mexico - Cristiano Ronaldo is set to make history after being named in Portugal national football team’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. At 41, Ronaldo is on course to become the first men’s footballer to feature in six World Cups, adding another remarkable chapter to his legendary career. But this time, Portugal’s hopes may not rest entirely on him.

Coach Roberto Martinez has assembled a balanced and modern squad filled with depth across every department. Portugal’s midfield and attack feature stars like Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, Rafael Leao and Goncalo Ramos, giving the team multiple attacking options instead of relying on one player. Unlike previous tournaments where Portugal often depended heavily on Ronaldo’s brilliance, this squad is built with tactical flexibility. Martinez can now use Ronaldo more strategically — starting him against deep defensive teams, preserving him for key moments, or bringing him on when experience and finishing become decisive. His ability in penalties, headers and clutch knockout moments still makes him a major weapon.

However, Portugal also know the risks. Ronaldo’s age means he cannot press or cover ground like before, and the team cannot afford to slow its attacking rhythm just to accommodate him. The strength of this Portuguese side lies in its variety, pace and technical quality, and Martinez must ensure that Ronaldo complements the system rather than becoming its sole focus again.

Ronaldo’s sixth World Cup will undoubtedly dominate headlines, but Portugal’s bigger advantage may be that they no longer depend entirely on him. Surrounded by one of the most complete squads of his international career, Ronaldo can now focus on delivering in decisive moments rather than carrying the entire team. For Portugal, that shift could finally turn history into a genuine World Cup opportunity.