Portugal coach, Roberto Martinez, has explained why Cristiano Ronaldo and Bernardo Silva were left out of the squad for the national team’s upcoming international matches, stressing that both players remain central to the team’s World Cup plans.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, March 20, after announcing the squad for friendlies against the United States and Mexico, Martinez clarified that Ronaldo’s absence was due to a short-term injury and not a threat to his participation in the 2026 World Cup.
“The World Cup is not at risk. He is not at risk, no. It’s a small muscle injury, and we think he should be able to return in about a week or two,” Martinez said.
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“Cristiano has done a lot of physical work this season, which shows he is in great shape.”
Ronaldo has not featured since February 28, when he left Al-Nassr’s 3-1 win over Al-Fayha in the Saudi Pro League due to a hamstring injury.
He subsequently traveled to Madrid for treatment.
Martinez also addressed the absence of Bernardo Silva, explaining that it was a precaution based on medical advice from Manchester City. “Bernardo Silva, it’s a technical choice, based on the medical info that the player’s team gave,” he said.
The two friendlies will be Portugal’s final matches before the World Cup in North America. They face Mexico at Estadio Azteca on March 28, followed by a clash against the United States in Atlanta on April 1.
“This is about managing players carefully,” Martinez added, reinforcing that both Ronaldo and Silva are expected to return to full fitness ahead of the global tournament.
