Alan Shearer questions Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence as Portugal captain faces scrutiny at 2026 World Cup

Former England captain Alan Shearer has questioned whether Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has the freedom to substitute Cristiano Ronaldo when necessary, suggesting the legendary forward’s influence within the national team remains unmatched.

The comments come after Portugal’s frustrating draw against DR Congo at the 2026 World Cup, a performance that reignited debate over Ronaldo’s role as he prepares for what is widely expected to be the final World Cup of his extraordinary career.

Shearer questions Ronaldo’s influence

Ronaldo remains one of the most iconic figures in world football, but Shearer believes his status may create challenges for Portugal’s coaching staff when difficult tactical decisions need to be made.

Speaking to Betfair, the former Newcastle United and England striker suggested Martinez could face complications if he attempts to reduce Ronaldo’s minutes during the tournament.

“Whether Roberto Martinez is allowed to have a word with him and actually bring him off. Cristiano is that powerful,” Shearer said.

“If he isn’t prepared to understand he cannot play every minute, then it won’t work.”

The comments reflect growing discussion around how Portugal should manage their 41-year-old captain as the intensity of the World Cup increases.

Portugal’s balance remains under the spotlight

While Ronaldo’s leadership and experience remain invaluable, Shearer believes Portugal must prioritize what is best for the team if they are to challenge for the trophy.

The former Premier League striker argued that managing Ronaldo’s workload could become increasingly important as the competition progresses.

“It was always a concern of mine if Ronaldo wasn’t prepared to accept he may not start every game, and he certainly can’t play every minute of every game,” Shearer continued.

“It looks as if that’s the case.”

Despite his concerns, Shearer would still include Ronaldo from the start in Portugal’s next fixture.

“I would start him in Portugal’s next game, but if it doesn’t work, I’d be telling him he has to come off.”

However, he returned to the issue of Ronaldo’s influence within the squad.

“That’s what I mean though, it’s whether he’s allowed to be subbed because Cristiano is that powerful.

“It’s really difficult. He’s a global superstar who has done so well for so many years, but he hasn’t scored for a while in a Portugal shirt and he’s nowhere near his best.”

Messi comparison reignites GOAT debate

Ronaldo’s difficult evening came just 24 hours after long-time rival Lionel Messi produced one of the standout performances of the tournament.

The Argentina captain scored a stunning hat-trick against Algeria, once again demonstrating his enduring quality on football’s biggest stage.

Shearer admitted Messi’s display only strengthened his own view in the long-running debate over the greatest player of all time.

“Lionel Messi is staggering,” he said.

“He’s just incredible how he keeps going. He looks as good as ever and he’s got a team now who are prepared to do more running for the sake of him to try and get him on the ball.”

Frustration mounting for Ronaldo?

According to Shearer, watching Messi shine while struggling himself may have added to Ronaldo’s frustrations.

The Portuguese star appeared visibly disappointed during Portugal’s opening match, with his influence on proceedings limited throughout the contest.

“I’d imagine the frustrations from Ronaldo the night before watching Messi score three and then him going out and not playing well at all,” Shearer added.

“You can imagine what he’s feeling.”

As Portugal prepare for their next World Cup assignment, Martinez faces a delicate balancing act between respecting one of football’s greatest-ever players and making the decisions he believes are necessary to maximize his team’s chances of success.

With the knockout stages approaching, Ronaldo’s role is likely to remain one of the tournament’s most closely watched storylines.