Portugal boss Roberto Martinez has revealed his plan to integrate Al-Nassr star Cristiano Ronaldo into the national squad ahead of Euro 2024.

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• Ronaldo just finished Saudi season
• Set to link up with Portugal squad
• Martinez reveals plan for Al-Nassr ace

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Former Real Madrid and Manchester United star Ronaldo has been granted a week off following the conclusion of the Saudi Pro League season. Now, national team coach Martinez says the 39-year-old and Al-Hilal's Ruben Nevez will link up with their compatriots on Friday but they will not feature in the friendly against Croatia the following day in preparation for Euro 2024 in Germany.

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  WHAT ROBERTO MARTINEZ SAID

  The former Belgium boss told reporters: "Ruben Neves and Cristiano Ronaldo will arrive on June 7. All the players have had seven days to adapt, prepare for the Euros, and refresh their minds. The plan for the two of them is to skip the match with Croatia and play against Ireland."

• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Ronaldo is playing his 12th international tournament as he seeks to fire Portugal to more silverware, after helping them in their 2016 Euro success. Even at 39, he still scored 44 goals in 45 matches this season and having him fully fit and raring to go is likely to be key to Portugal's chances this summer.

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  WHAT NEXT?

  Forward Ronaldo and midfielder Nevez look set to feature for Portugal in their final warm-up game against the Republic of Ireland on June 11, before their tournament opener seven days later against Czech Republic.

Tags: Futebol
Category: News