Portugal national football team captain Cristiano Ronaldo had a particularly grueling time at Euro 2024, finding himself offside eight times throughout the tournament, more than any other player. The statistic highlights a growing trend, with Ronaldo's ability to position himself effectively becoming a concern among fans and analysts alike.
By comparison, players such as Germany's Niclas Füllkrug, Slovenia's Andraž Šporar and Hungary's Barnabás Varga, who each recorded four offsides, demonstrate a more balanced approach. However, Ronaldo's frequent offsides may reflect a difficulty in adjusting his movement patterns to match the pace and strategy of his teammates, especially as the dynamics of the game change in modern football.
On 5 July, in the quarter-final against France, Portugal suffered a frustrating exit after a goalless draw, eventually losing 3–5 on penalties. Ronaldo played the entire match, but once again failed to find the back of the net, extending his goal drought in the tournament. His inability to score, combined with his record of being caught offside on several occasions, led to increased scrutiny of his role as a striker in critical matches.
An integral part of the Portuguese squad since 2003, Ronaldo's contribution to the national team spans an impressive 212 matches, during which he has scored 130 goals and provided 47 assists. Despite these remarkable statistics, his time on the pitch has not been without its challenges, as indicated by the 31 yellow cards he has accumulated during his international career. These cards highlight his competitive spirit but also suggest moments where his frustration may have led to tactical errors.
As the tournament progressed, it became increasingly clear that Portugal’s reliance on Ronaldo, an iconic figure in football history, could be detrimental to the team’s overall performance. While he has undoubtedly been a key player for over two decades, the need for a balanced approach that incorporates new talent is becoming increasingly apparent. Younger players are moving into key positions and the national team’s future strategy could benefit from this transition.
Going forward, the Portuguese football landscape will need to think carefully about how to utilise Ronaldo’s experience while also fostering the development of emerging stars. With Euro 2024 now behind them, there are crucial lessons to be learned, particularly regarding tactical adaptations and the importance of flexibility in team dynamics.
The defeat to France not only means the end of the tournament for Portugal, but also raises questions about the structure and future direction of the national team. The balance between legendary players and new talent is crucial to future success, and how Ronaldo performs in this changing environment will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
Ultimately, Ronaldo will always hold a place in the hearts of the Portuguese fans, but the team must now focus on building a new identity and strategy that can capitalise on the abilities of its young players. The road ahead may be difficult, but with a balanced roster and a clear vision, Portugal can aim to return to the European stage in the coming years.
