Former US national team player Taylor Twellman shared an interesting opinion about the Portugal national team and Cristiano Ronaldo's role in the 2026 World Cup. He stated that the current Portugal squad might be the strongest among all World Cups in which Ronaldo has participated.
According to Twellman, the Portugal national team has many talented, fast, and high-level players. Therefore, he suggested that the team could play more freely and effectively without Ronaldo.
"This is the strongest Portugal squad in any World Cup that Ronaldo has played in. I think Portugal plays its best football when Cristiano is not on the pitch," Twellman said on ESPN's Get Up.
Previously, it was reported that Cristiano Ronaldo received a call-up to the Portugal national team for the 2026 World Cup. This will be the sixth tournament for the 41-year-old star, a rare and monumental achievement in football history.
At the same time, discussions continue regarding Ronaldo's age and his role in the team's play. On one side, there is his experience, leadership, and goal-scoring ability. On the other, a new generation of Portuguese players has emerged, possessing high potential in speed, pressing, and collective movement.
The 2026 World Cup will take place this summer in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Portugal heads into this tournament with high ambitions. The main question remains: will the team rely on Ronaldo's experience or give more freedom to the new generation?
In short, Taylor Twellman stated that Portugal could play its best game without Ronaldo. This opinion is sure to spark debate among fans, as Ronaldo is a legend, but in major tournaments, team balance is sometimes just as important as star status.
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