“We don’t need one player, we need five or six” - Roberto Martinez responds when asked if Cristiano Ronaldo needs someone for help in Portugal attack

When asked if Cristiano Ronaldo requires assistance in Portugal's attacking department during Euro 2024, head coach Roberto Martínez told the media the side need at least five attackers. With this year's tournament, the 39-year-old icon became the first player to play in six European Championships.

During a press conference ahead of the Selecao's Euro 2024 clash against Turkey on Saturday, June 22, at Signal Iduna Park, the 50-year-old manager was questioned if the star forward needed someone to help him to attack. To this, Martínez replied (via O Jogo):

“I think Ronaldo had three shots scored, that's the most he's had so far. He was very disciplined, worked hard for us and is a very important scorer, he opens up spaces and created space for Chico in goal. He is very important for us in the area, but the important thing is to get there."

"Our team doesn't play directly or look for the striker quickly, so there's no need to play with long passes to the striker. We don’t need one player, we need five or six in the striker position," Martínez added.

The Selecao claimed the UEFA European Championship in 2016 after ending up as runners-up in 2004.

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Roberto Martínez on Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portugal's chances against Turkey in Euro 2024

In their Euro 2024 opener, Portugal bagged a 2-1 win against Czechia on June 18, at Red Bull Arena, Leipzig. When asked if Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portugal's upcoming clash against Turkey will be easier, Martinez said (via O Jogo):

"Not easy games anymore, but different games. Czechia didn't try to play the way they played, but it happens. The teams are very competitive, they have a level of verticality... the teams want compete and there are solutions for 90 minutes."

"Turkey has a lot of talent, a good defensive structure. They are a very balanced team, every game is different. Czechia had a shot scored and scored a goal, ready for another game," added Roberto Martínez.

Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 130 goals and provided 46 assists in 208 appearances for Portugal while winning the UEFA Nations League in 2019 along with the Euro 2016.