Portugal will improve without Ronaldo: make room for young players — Kevin-Prince Bodeng
After Portugal vs Democratic Republic of Congo (1–1), Ronaldo had to step back and let the youngsters shine; In the end, the change is good for the team, according to Boateng.
Portugal drew 1–1 with the Democratic Republic of Congo in the first round of the FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage. Following the match, former Ghanaian midfielder Kevin-Prince Bodeng made a scathing comment on Cristiano Ronaldo's role in Portugal's attack.
"If Ronaldo is a player who really cares about the team, he should step back and give the young players a chance to shine. Portugal are playing better without Ronaldo," he said, according to Portuguese daily 'A Bola'.
Bodeng continued, adding that when Ronaldo is on the pitch, the team is under unnecessary pressure as teammates often try to pass the ball to him. "If Portugal want to go far in this World Cup, Ronaldo can pay off in the last 15-20 minutes as a substitute in key moments rather than at the start," he suggested.
Bodeng's comments provide a fresh angle on the debate that followed Portugal's 1–1 draw. The speech, quoted by 'A Bola', focuses on the balance of the team and the emergence of young players.
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