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'There's A Reason Ronaldo Is In Saudi'

'There's A Reason Ronaldo Is In Saudi'

ABHA, SAUDI ARABIA - AUGUST 17: Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr celebrates after scoring the 1st goal during the Saudi Super Cup Final match between Al Nassr and Al Hilal at Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz Stadium on August 17, 2024 in Abha, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

Al Nassr star Cristiano Ronaldo has become a problem for Portugal coach Roberto Martinez, according to a former Premier League star.

Former England and Aston Villa striker believes there are exiting players on the bench that should starting ahead of the five-time Ballon d'Or winner.

Ronaldo was on target during Portugal's win over Croatia this week, bringing up his 900th career goal.

Read: Ronaldo Makes Huge EUROs-World Cup Claim

"If you watched him in the Euros, we forget don't we, that he didn't do anything. He probably hindered other players being played. I think him playing that many games probably cost Portugal," Agbonlahor told talkSPORT.

"I know people will say that's harsh and it's not his fault, but you know, you had your time. You've still got what it takes, but have you got what it takes at the highest level any more? 

"There's a reason why he's playing in Saudi Arabia, there's a reason why he got let go at Manchester United, there's a reason why he's not playing in Europe. I just think Portugal have got so many exciting players that were left on the bench during that Euros."

"Ronaldo will want to go to the World Cup, he's not just carrying on to play the Nations League. The end goal is retiring at the World Cup. But if I'm [Roberto] Martinez I'm like 'ugh, it's the Ronaldo show again'. 

"He's already said I don't want to be a bench player. He said if he's in the squad he wants to be a starter. You've got that problem. It's a hard one for the manager because is Ronaldo as big as Portugal?"

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