Portugal National Team manager Roberto Martinez has refrained from making definitive statements regarding the future of Cristiano Ronaldo and Pepe following their heart-wrenching quarter-final defeat to France at Euro 2024.
Throughout the tournament, both Ronaldo, aged 39, and Pepe, aged 41, played pivotal roles. Ronaldo featured prominently in all knockout stage matches, including the thrilling penalty shootout victory over Slovenia and the ultimately disappointing loss to France.
Meanwhile, Pepe made history as the oldest player ever to grace the European Championships, leaving a lasting mark with his resilient performances on the field.
The profound emotional connection between the two veterans was palpable after the match against France, as cameras captured a poignant embrace on the pitch.
Pepe appeared visibly moved, while Ronaldo offered words of solace, prompting speculation about whether this poignant moment signaled their final bow on the international stage.
Martinez, however, remained measured in his response, emphasizing that no decisions have been finalized amidst the raw emotions following their elimination. “Everything is too raw,” Martinez remarked, acknowledging the team’s profound disappointment.
“We are still suffering,” he added, stressing the need for patience and reflection before addressing the futures of individual players.
Ronaldo’s performance throughout the tournament has sparked debate, as the prolific forward, despite his pivotal role, did not manage to find the back of the net. Martinez acknowledged the challenges Ronaldo faced but refrained from engaging in speculative discussions about his future role within the squad.
In contrast, Pepe’s contributions were widely celebrated for their defensive prowess and leadership, providing invaluable guidance to the younger members of the team.
As Portugal exits Euro 2024, attention now shifts to forthcoming international fixtures and the future trajectory of the national team. Whether Ronaldo and Pepe will extend their international careers remains uncertain.
Martinez’s cautious stance suggests that any decisions regarding their involvement will be carefully deliberated upon, allowing for a period of introspection for both the players and the team management alike.