Portugal winger Francisco Conceicao has dismissed suggestions that his teammates feel obligated to pass the ball to Cristiano Ronaldo, insisting the veteran forward is treated like any other player within the squad despite growing scrutiny over his role at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Questions have been raised about Ronaldo’s influence on Portugal’s attack after their disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their opening Group K fixture.
The 41-year-old captain remains one of the biggest names in world football, but critics have increasingly debated whether Portugal’s attacking play becomes too focused on supplying the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Conceicao, however, rejected that narrative during a press conference on Sunday.
“We don’t feel the need to pass him the ball,” the winger said.
“I pass it to whoever I think is in the best position and unmarked.”
The comments come as Portugal prepare for a crucial second group match against Uzbekistan in Houston on Tuesday, knowing another disappointing result could leave their qualification hopes hanging in the balance.
Despite the external criticism, Conceicao stressed that Ronaldo remains a valuable figure within the squad and continues to lead by example.
“Cristiano is an example because of his career and the hunger he still possesses at 41 years of age,” he said.
“An example of leadership and the goals he scores.”
The Juventus winger went even further, describing Ronaldo as simply another member of a collective that must function together if Portugal are to challenge for the World Cup.
“There is no one like him when it comes to scoring goals,” Conceicao added.
“He is here to help, just like any other player.”
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The remarks appear designed to calm growing debate around Portugal’s dependence on their iconic captain, whose longevity continues to attract admiration while also generating questions about how the team should evolve.
Portugal entered the tournament among the dark horses for the title but failed to convince in their opening outing against DR Congo.
That result has increased pressure on Roberto Martinez’s side ahead of their meeting with Uzbekistan.
Conceicao admitted the players were disappointed by their performance and understand the scrutiny that accompanies a poor result on football’s biggest stage.
“No one takes it harder than we do,” he said.
“We felt firsthand that we didn’t do our job in the best possible way.
“If things don’t go well, there will be more pressure and more criticism. We want to show our quality and win the next match.”
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