Euro 2024: Ronaldo's Contribution to Portugal is Exceptional - Coach

Cristiano Ronaldo set a new Saudi Pro League record this season by scoring 35 goals for Al Nassr.

 Portugal coach Roberto Martínez emphasized Cristiano Ronaldo's significance to the national team, highlighting the veteran forward's unique contributions to the locker room.

Ronaldo, 39, joined Portugal's squad on Friday for the upcoming Euro 2024. Martínez praised Ronaldo during a news conference, stating, "There is no other player in world football who can bring what Cristiano can bring to the locker room. It's going to be his sixth European Championship. He is the only player to have played in five European Championships. We are talking about a unique feat in world football, and this experience is important. Cristiano is ready to help and give everything he can."

Despite not winning any silverware this season, Ronaldo set a Saudi Pro League record by scoring 35 goals for Al Nassr in his first full campaign at the club. Martínez commended Ronaldo's consistency, noting, "Cristiano has had very consistent performances for his club; there is no doubt that he is an incredible finisher."

Ronaldo, Portugal's captain, is the all-time leading scorer in men's international football with 128 goals. The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star recently expressed his desire to maintain his high level of performance for as long as possible.

Euro 2016 winners Portugal have a blend of experience and youth in their squad. Martínez stressed the importance of this mix, saying, "Experience is very important during a tournament, also due to the mix of new blood in the dressing room. It is important to manage the experience of players like Pepê and Cristiano. There has to be an environment where young players believe they can help the team."

One of the emerging talents in the squad is Benfica's teenage midfielder João Neves. Neves, 19, has been linked with several top European clubs, including Manchester United, after an impressive season in the Primeira Liga. Manchester City's Bernardo Silva commented on the interest in Neves, saying, "He is a player that many clubs want due to his success last season. I don't have any 'inside information,' but that's what I hear. Of course, I would like to see him by my side [at City]; I really appreciate him as a player. But he has to take his own path. I don't need to convince [Manchester City coach Pep] Guardiola, as he convinces almost all coaches in the world with the way he works. I imagine it won't be easy for some clubs to enter the race for him, but if João continues with the energy he has shown, he will have a very good future ahead of him."