Ronaldo dismisses fitness questions as Portugal departs for World Cup

Ronaldo: "Haven't you been watching the games?"

Cristiano Ronaldo had a sharp response Friday when asked about his physical condition ahead of his sixth World Cup. "Physically fine, haven't you been watching the games? I'm good. No surprise at all," the Portugal captain said (2). At 41, Ronaldo is preparing for a tournament where manager Roberto Martínez says his attitude remains "the same as an 18-year-old making his national team debut" (3).

The captain also backed this Portugal generation to deliver. "It's a very good generation, but there are factors we can't control: winning or not winning, which is the most important thing. But I believe it's a generation that will bring a lot of joy to the Portuguese," Ronaldo said (2).

Portugal touches down in the USA

The Seleção departed Lisbon on Friday morning, bound for the United States and the 2026 World Cup (1) (2) (4) (6). Before flying out, the squad held its final training session on Portuguese soil. The session included a tribute to a fan who passed away before the Nigeria friendly (5) (6).

Portugal's World Cup opener is set for June 17 against DR Congo (1). The squad enters the tournament fully fit, with Martínez having his full complement of players available after the closed training camp in Oeiras.

Ronaldo's market value hits €10M

Transfermarkt's latest World Cup valuation pegs Cristiano Ronaldo at €10 million, a steep drop from his peak of €120 million earlier in his career (3). The number is a footnote now. At 41, his value to Portugal will be measured on the pitch starting June 17.