dailyloe.com – Cristiano Ronaldo will not play for Portugal in their June friendlies against the United States and Mexico. The decision was made by the Portuguese Football Federation and his club, Al Nassr, to manage his workload. This strategic rest period aims to preserve the 39-year-old forward’s fitness for upcoming competitions. The matches are key preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Ronaldo’s absence provides an opportunity for other squad members to gain valuable international experience.
Portugal is scheduled to face the United States Men’s National Team on June 11. They will then play against Mexico on June 14 in another high-profile friendly. These games are part of both teams’ build-up to the next major tournament cycle. For the USMNT, facing a top European nation without its star player remains a significant test. The context of these matches is crucial for squad evaluation ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which the US will co-host.
The Portuguese federation confirmed the mutual agreement for Ronaldo to skip these specific fixtures. This management strategy is common for veteran players with intense club schedules. Ronaldo continues to be a central figure for Portugal, having scored 128 international goals. His record makes him the all-time leading male international goalscorer in history. The team will rely on other attacking talents like João Félix and Gonçalo Ramos during his absence.
For the USMNT, the match offers a chance to gauge their progress against elite competition. Coach Gregg Berhalter has described the current squad as potentially the deepest in program history. The team is aiming to improve on its round of 16 finish from the 2022 World Cup. Facing a European powerhouse, even without Ronaldo, provides a critical benchmark. The result could influence confidence and tactical approaches moving forward.
Ronaldo’s focus will now shift to recovery and preparation with Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League. He remains committed to the Portuguese national team for future qualifiers and tournaments. His planned return to international duty is expected later in the year. Portugal’s coaching staff will use these friendlies to experiment with tactics and player roles. The team’s performance without their captain will be closely analyzed by fans and pundits worldwide.[]
Source: ESPN
