Inside Cristiano Ronaldo’s Controversial 2026 World Cup Experience: Ricardo Carvalho Reveals Shocking Secrets and What Could Have Changed Everything

That response reflected the mentality that has driven the forward throughout his career and his pursuit of the 1,000-goal milestone. However, Carvalho pointed out that Portugal also had other attacking players who needed opportunities, particularly with 26 players in the squad.

Carvalho reveals what he would have done differently

The former Chelsea and Real Madrid defender believes experience should have encouraged Martinez to recognize when Ronaldo’s energy was beginning to decline. Even if the forward still felt capable of making an impact, Carvalho argued that his physical condition could eventually affect his contribution.

“From my experience, when you get older, the later you come off, the worse it is, because you get more tired, you don’t arrive on time,” he explained. The ex-defender ultimately made his preferred approach clear, admitting: “I would have made the decision to substitute him. But it was up to Roberto to decide, and I think he’s happy with his choices.”

He also recalled that Portugal had substituted Ronaldo only once during that period, against Croatia, when Goncalo Ramos entered the match and scored. The situation highlighted the challenge of balancing the captain’s influence with the need to give other forwards meaningful playing time.

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