Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing for another World Cup campaign, but scrutiny around his place in Portugal 's side has grown.
Now 41, Ronaldo remains captain and is still expected to start under Roberto Martinez. However, recent friendlies against Chile and Nigeria raised concerns about his role, with limited involvement feeding debate over whether Portugal can keep him connected to the attack.
In that landscape, one question from a reporter showed how sensitive the discussion around the Al-Nassr superstar has become.
Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images
Speaking to the media on Friday before Portugal's trip to the United States, where they open their World Cup campaign against DR Congo on June 17, Ronaldo was asked about his physical condition.
The Al-Nassr forward immediately pushed back, pointing to his recent appearances as evidence that there should be no doubt.
"Physically? Physically, I'm fine. Haven't you seen the games? I think I'm fine. There's no surprise," the Portuguese striker stated.
Ronaldo also downplayed concerns about Portugal's final warm-up games. They beat Chile and Nigeria, but the performances did not fully silence questions about rhythm, sharpness and his own influence.
He said: "It was a very good and tiring preparation because we worked hard. And it wasn't normal for these two games to be at the highest level. Our two very important victories prevailed, in which we played well and won well, but the most important thing is when, on the 17th, the first game starts."
That is the key for Ronaldo. Friendly performances have fuelled the debate about Portugal and his own level, but the World Cup will decide whether the concern is real or simply noise.
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