New Portugal boss, Roberto Martinez has reiterated his desire to work with Cristiano Ronaldo and considers the Forward an important part of the national team.
Martinez left his role with the Belgium NT after a rather dismal campaign at the World Cup in Qatar last December.
Despite heading into the tournament as the second best-ranked team according to FIFA, the Red Devils failed to impress and there were reports of a dressing room implosion among senior players in the squad.
Weeks after quitting, Martinez was confirmed as the new Portugal manager and replaces Fernando Santos who was relieved of the position following Portugal’s quarter-final exit at the World Cup.
Speaking after his appointment, the Spaniard said, “Decisions have to be made on the pitch. I want to meet everyone, and starting today (Monday).
“Cristiano is part of that list, he spent 19 years with the national team and deserves respect, let’s talk,” he added.
“Tomorrow (Tuesday) we’ll start working, getting to know all the players, and Cristiano is one of them.”
