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Portugal’s Potential Without Ronaldo: A Tactical Shift?

Lisbon, Portugal – December 5, 2025 – A growing discussion is taking place within football circles regarding the Portuguese national team and the continued presence of its star captain, Cristiano Ronaldo. Recent analysis from prominent football figures suggests the team may exhibit enhanced performance when ronaldo is not on the field.

The Debate Ignites

Former international players, including Landon Donovan, Alexi Lalas, Stu Holden, and Cobi Jones, have publicly shared their perspectives on the matter. The central question revolves around whether portugal’s overall tactical fluidity and attacking prowess are hampered by Ronaldo’s inclusion, despite his undeniable individual brilliance.

The core of the argument centers on the potential for a more balanced and dynamic attacking approach without the need to constantly accommodate Ronaldo’s positioning and requirements. Some analysts believe that a team built around collective movement and pressing may prove more effective in the long run.

Analyzing Portugal’s Performance

Portugal has historically relied heavily on Ronaldo’s goal-scoring ability and individual moments of magic.However, recent matches have shown instances where the team struggled to create opportunities when Ronaldo was heavily marked or isolated. This has lead to speculation that a different tactical setup coudl unlock the team’s full potential.

A key consideration is the emergence of other talented Portuguese players. with a new generation of attackers coming through the ranks, the team possesses a wealth of options beyond Ronaldo. Utilizing these players effectively may require a shift in strategy and a willingness to experiment with different formations.

Did You Know? Portugal has won only one major international tournament – the UEFA European Championship in 2016 – with Ronaldo as a key player.