Martinez: Ronaldo Is Greatest Ever Regardless of World Cup

Portugal’s national head coach, Roberto Martínez, has waded back into the perennial "Greatest of All Time" (GOAT) debate, staunchly defending Cristiano Ronaldo’s legacy. As the footballing world prepares for the 2026 World Cup, Martínez argued that the legendary forward should not be judged solely on the absence of a World Cup trophy from his glittering cabinet.

According to the Spanish tactician, while winning the world’s most prestigious tournament is an extraordinary feat, it does not serve as the definitive barometer for a career as unprecedented as Ronaldo's. Martínez believes the Portuguese icon’s influence and contribution to the sport have already ascended to a pinnacle that transcends individual tournament results.

Beyond the Messi Comparison

The debate over who reigns supreme—Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo—has enthralled football enthusiasts for over two decades. Following Messi’s triumph with Argentina at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, many pundits declared the argument settled in favour of the diminutive playmaker. However, Ronaldo’s devotees, and indeed his manager, remain unconvinced.

At the age of 41, Ronaldo is on the precipice of a historic sixth World Cup appearance. Despite possessing five Ballon d'Or awards and a record-breaking haul of club and international silverware, the World Cup remains the only major missing piece. Martínez insists that focusing on this single omission does a grave disservice to Ronaldo’s longevity and consistent excellence.

Statistical Brilliance: The Road to 1,000

Martínez, who has observed Ronaldo’s meticulous professionalism firsthand during national training sessions, highlighted the striker's relentless work ethic. Speaking on the Portugal Football Summit podcast, he noted that Ronaldo’s presence acts as a vital bridge for the next generation of Portuguese talent.

A Mentor and a Goal Machine

Ronaldo’s role within the Seleção has evolved; he is now a mentor and a source of inspiration as much as he is a clinical finisher. His recent form suggests that age is but a number, having netted 25 times in his last 30 appearances for Portugal. With 964 career goals to his name, the Al-Nassr star is a mere 36 strikes away from becoming the first male player to reach the four-figure milestone in professional football.

Martínez concluded that whether or not Ronaldo lifts the trophy in 2026, his status as the "greatest player of all time" is already secured through twenty years of unparalleled dominance and a professional standard that remains the gold standard for aspiring athletes worldwide.