Cristiano Ronaldo Ruled Out of Portugal Squad for March Friendlies Through Injury

• Cristiano Ronaldo misses Portugal’s March games against Mexico and the United States
• Forward sidelined with hamstring injury but expected to return within weeks
• Roberto Martínez insists Ronaldo is not at risk of missing the World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo has been left out of Portugal national team’s squad for the upcoming World Cup warmup matches against Mexico national team and the United States national team after failing to recover from a right hamstring injury.

The 41-year-old sustained the issue while playing for Al Nassr on Feb. 28 and has since undergone treatment in Madrid. He will miss the match at Estadio Azteca on March 28 and the game in Atlanta on March 31.

Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez moved to reassure supporters, stating that Ronaldo is not in danger of missing what would be his sixth World Cup.

“No, he’s not in danger,” Martínez said. “It’s a minor muscle injury, and we think he can be back in a week or two. Everything Cristiano has done physically this season shows that he’s in great shape.”

Ronaldo, the all-time leading scorer in men’s international football with 143 goals, has not played in the United States since 2014, when he featured for Real Madrid during a preseason tour.

Portugal are set to begin their World Cup campaign in Houston on June 17, with confidence that their captain will be available.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo’s teammate João Félix has been included in the squad, alongside Bruno Fernandes, who has enjoyed a strong domestic season.

Mateus Fernandes has earned his first call-up, while Gonçalo Guedes returns to the squad for the first time since 2022.

Martínez highlighted Guedes’ form as a key reason for his inclusion.

“He’s a versatile player,” Martínez said. “He has scored nine goals this season and is in excellent form. We’re very excited about what he could bring to the national team in these friendlies.”

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.

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