Ex-Swedish footballer Zlatan Ibrahimovic opined that relying on Cristiano Ronaldo is hindering Portugal's development. "You can't expect to win...in 2026 with a 41-year-old Ronaldo leading the attack...This isn't legendary leadership. It's the ego that's holding the team hostage. Ronaldo has lost his touch and mobility," he said. Ronaldo has scored three goals in four FIFA World Cup 2026 matches.