World Cup 2026: Francisco Conceição responds to questions about passing to Cristiano Ronaldo

Just days before Portugal's clash with Uzbekistan at the 2026 World Cup, Francisco Conceição has moved to put an end to the growing controversy surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo and his role within the Seleção.

The 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of the Congo in their opening match has sparked a wave of criticism. Some believe Portugal’s forwards are always looking for Cristiano Ronaldo, sometimes at the expense of better attacking options.

Speaking at a press conference, Francisco Conceição was unequivocal about any supposed obligation to pass to the Al-Nassr striker.

“We are not obliged to pass him the ball”

The Juventus player explained that decisions on the pitch happen naturally, without any special consideration for Ronaldo’s status.

“Cristiano, with his goal-scoring instinct, is one of a kind. But we have no obligation, no need to always pass him the ball.”

According to Conceição, attacking decisions are dictated by the moment and by the positioning of teammates.

“Personally, I pass the ball to whoever seems best placed at that precise moment. There’s no time to think about who’s next to me; you act on instinct. Everything happens in milliseconds.”

No special treatment for CR7

The Portuguese international also dismissed the idea that Cristiano Ronaldo enjoys any special status within Roberto Martínez’s squad.

For him, the Portuguese legend is, above all, a player at the service of the team.

“Cristiano is here to help, just like any other player in the national team.”

As Portugal seeks its first win of the 2026 World Cup, Francisco Conceição’s statements are a reminder that the Seleção puts the team above all, even with a player as iconic as Cristiano Ronaldo in the squad.

Nouya M'toama

Editorfr, en

Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.