Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has revealed that he privately told Portugal manager Roberto Martinez that Cristiano Ronaldo would become a problem for the national team. Ronaldo, now 41, started Portugal's opening World Cup match against DR Congo but failed to score, extending his goalless run in major tournaments to 10 games.
Scholes' Private Conversation with Martinez
Speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, Scholes said: "I did a Stick To Football with Roberto Martinez and I ask him off camera 'Is he a problem for you?' I feel he is a little bit of a problem." Scholes also stated that no outfield player over 40 should be starting matches, adding: "There's only position on the pitch you should be start a game at 41 years of age, and that's goalkeeper."
Ronaldo's Impact on Portugal's Style
Former Liverpool winger John Barnes echoed Scholes' concerns, saying Ronaldo "negatively impacts on the rest of the players in terms of what they have to give, because they feel they've got to pass to him, they've got to do that." Ronaldo registered just 25 touches during the 90 minutes against DR Congo, his lowest-ever tally in a major tournament match where he played the full duration, according to Opta.
Martinez Defends Ronaldo
Despite the criticism, Martinez defended the five-time Ballon d'Or winner after the match. "It makes no sense to get the best goalscorer in world football out in a game that you need goals," he told reporters. "For us in moments like this, the experience of Cristiano in the box is important. The way that he attracts defenders is important, the way that we can use the space is important."
Portugal were held to a draw by DR Congo in their Group opener, and Ronaldo missed several chances to win the game. The veteran forward's role in the team has become a major talking point, with many questioning whether his presence is hindering Portugal's attacking fluidity.
