Roberto Martinez’s management of Cristiano Ronaldo has come under fresh scrutiny after Portugal’s World Cup opener left pundits questioning who really makes the big calls.
Portugal drew 1-1 with DR Congo in Group K, despite taking an early lead through Joao Neves before Yoane Wissa equalized in first-half stoppage time. Ronaldo played the full 90 minutes but failed to register a goal, assist or shot on target.
The result itself was disappointing for Portugal. But the bigger talking point was whether Martinez should have taken Ronaldo off as the game appeared to be moving away from him.
Roberto Martinez Cristiano Ronaldo decision called embarrassing by Chris Sutton
Chris Sutton did not hold back in his assessment, criticizing Martinez as Portugal chased a winner with Ronaldo still on the pitch.
Sutton said: “That’s embarrassing from Martinez. It might work but are we all watching a different game?
“He’s scared to take him off. He’s not the manager. [Ronaldo] may end up scoring the winner but the game has passed him by today.”
The criticism was not just about one missed chance. At 41, Ronaldo still holds major influence within Portugal’s squad, but that status may also make it harder for Martinez to make a cold tactical decision.
Portugal attack looked shaped by Ronaldo’s presence against DR Congo
The wider pundit discussion focused on how Portugal’s younger attackers seemed to play around Ronaldo. Wayne Rooney, Gael Clichy and Olivier Giroud all felt Francisco Conceicao was better placed to shoot himself rather than try to set up Ronaldo.
Thierry Henry made a similar point on Fox Sports, saying Ronaldo’s run blocked a possible pass to Bruno Fernandes, who had space near the penalty spot. His argument was that Portugal needed the best scoring option, not just the ball aimed toward Ronaldo.
Clichy also suggested Ronaldo’s superstar status can unconsciously affect teammates. He said players sometimes feel the need to find the biggest name, instead of taking responsibility themselves.
That does not make Ronaldo the only issue. Martinez has praised his captain’s example, and Ronaldo has delivered plenty of major moments for Portugal.
But this game gave critics fresh evidence. Ronaldo stayed on, Portugal dropped points, and Sutton’s verdict made the uncomfortable question around Martinez impossible to ignore.
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