Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho believes Real Madrid star and former Red Devils player Cristiano Ronaldo can lead Portugal to World Cup glory this summer.
Despite picking up an injury in the final against France, Fernando Santos’ side clinched the title, and Mourinho believes his country can replicate their previous form in Russia this summer, but only if Ronaldo is in the starting line-up. Join the champions.
The pair famously worked together during a three-year period for Los Blancos, where the Portuguese compatriots lifted the La Liga title and the Copa del Rey, so Mourinho is certainly familiar with the exploits of Real’s talisman.
Talking to ESPN Brazil, Mourinho said: “Portugal has an interesting squad. Without Cristiano, it would be impossible. But with him nothing is impossible.”
He continued: “I believe that the Argentinian national team without Lionel Messi wouldn’t be a contender. But with him, it is one of the favourites.”
He added: “I like very much the basic structure of Brazil, its tactical and mentality.
“There is a mixture between Brazilian natural talent, with a serious approach, physical, tactical.”
Ronaldo for Portugal
A perennial winner at club level, Ronaldo championed over Lionel Messi two years ago by becoming the first player out of the Ballon d’Or rivals to clinch silverware with their respective nations.
The 2016 European Championship was the first and only trophy in Ronaldo’s Portugal career, though the 33-year-old will be looking to add to that this summer.
