It is natural for a footballer, regardless of age, to want to play as much as possible – especially someone with his relentless competitive drive, the quality that allowed him to conquer multiple leagues and countries.
More surprising is Martínez’s approach and that no one in Ronaldo’s inner circle appears willing to tell him what has become increasingly obvious: if he truly wants to serve the team, he should approach the coach about taking a reduced role.
Players of his stature have a duty to recognise when they are no longer contributing to the team as they once did.
By continuing to occupy a position he can no longer justify on merit, he is holding Portugal back and damaging the image he spent his career building.
Should Ronaldo be part of Portugal’s World Cup squad? Absolutely.
A player with his experience remains invaluable off the field.
He can guide younger players through high-pressure moments, provide leadership from the sidelines and serve as a source of inspiration.
It would be naive to ignore his commercial value for the tournament and the Portuguese football federation, and there may be moments when it would be useful to bring him off the bench.
The saddest part of the story is that the greatest player in Portuguese football history risks seriously tarnishing his legacy.
How will he be remembered?
As the boy from humble beginnings who left Madeira at a young age, moved to Lisbon alone and conquered world football?
