Roberto Martinez is facing fierce criticism. Ahead of Portugal’s World Cup 2026 last-16 clash with Croatia, former striker Chris Sutton branded the manager’s continued reliance on Cristiano Ronaldo ‘completely embarrassing’. Sutton believes Martinez is holding back a hugely talented squad by ‘pandering’ to the 41-year-old and refusing to substitute him despite his declining impact. It’s a debate England fans recognise from years of big-name selection rows.
Why is Roberto Martinez being criticised?
Chris Sutton accuses Roberto Martinez of ‘pandering’ to Cristiano Ronaldo. The former Premier League striker argues the Portugal boss keeps the legend on the pitch at all costs, even as his output drops, at the expense of fresher, sharper attackers. The core charge: Martinez will never take Ronaldo off, even when the game demands it.
Portugal boast one of the deepest squads at the tournament, with an attacking generation capable of deciding any match. Sutton’s criticism raises a genuine tactical question: is a symbol worth more than a team firing on all cylinders?
Portugal vs Croatia: a tricky last-16 tie
The clash between Portugal and Croatia promises to be tight. The Croatians are knockout-stage specialists who punish any imbalance. If Martinez locks his XI around Ronaldo, Croatia could target the spaces left by a less mobile centre-forward.
For England fans, the tie matters directly: the winner could meet the Three Lions later in the bracket. Reading Portugal’s tactical flaws now is a way to scout a potential England opponent.
What it says about managing ageing stars
The Ronaldo situation goes beyond Portugal. Every major nation, England included, must balance the aura of a historic leader against pure performance. Keeping an icon can unite a dressing room, but it can also stifle the attack.
Tuchel’s England have faced their own versions of this debate. In knockout football, every substitution counts. Sutton’s outburst piles extra pressure on decisions that are already under the global spotlight.
FAQ
Why is Roberto Martinez being criticised before Portugal vs Croatia?
Chris Sutton has called his reliance on Cristiano Ronaldo ‘completely embarrassing’, arguing Martinez refuses to substitute the star despite his declining impact, which holds back a very talented squad.
When is Portugal vs Croatia?
The match takes place in the knockout phase of the 2026 World Cup. The exact kick-off time follows FIFA’s official last-16 schedule.
Who is Chris Sutton, the pundit behind the comments?
Chris Sutton is a former Premier League striker turned pundit. His blunt analysis of managers’ decisions is regularly covered across the British media.
What does this match mean for England?
The winner of Portugal vs Croatia could face England later in the bracket. Analysing Martinez’s choices helps anticipate a possible Three Lions opponent.
Will Cristiano Ronaldo start against Croatia?
Roberto Martinez has not dropped Ronaldo despite the criticism. He is widely expected to start, which is exactly what fuels the debate over the manager’s selection.
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