Alan Shearer makes astonishing Cristiano Ronaldo claim as Portugal face World Cup dilemma

Alan Shearer has questioned whether Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has the authority to substitute Cristiano Ronaldo, claiming the veteran forward's influence may be creating a major World Cup headache.Ronaldo endured a frustrating evening in Portugal's opening Group F encounter with DR Congo, producing a subdued display and failing to test the goalkeeper despite remaining on the pitch for the full 90 minutes.The five-time Ballon d'Or winner, now 41, appeared well below his best, yet Martinez resisted making a change as Portugal were held to a disappointing draw.That decision prompted criticism from pundits and supporters alike, with some suggesting the former Belgium boss was reluctant to remove his biggest star. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Ronaldo's loyal supporters quickly rallied behind him, flooding the social media accounts of several Portugal players with messages accusing them of deliberately ignoring the striker and refusing to supply him with passes.Former England captain Shearer believes the situation is becoming increasingly problematic and fears Martinez may struggle to manage Ronaldo's role during the latter stages of his glittering career.Speaking to Betfair, the ex-England striker admitted he had concerns before the tournament even began.It was always a concern of mine if Ronaldo wasn't prepared to accept he may not start every game, and he certainly can't play every minute of every game, Shearer said.It looks as if that's the case.Whether Roberto Martinez is allowed to have a word with him and actually bring him off. Cristiano is that powerful. If he isn't prepared to understand he can't play every minute, then it won't work.Shearer insisted he would still include Ronaldo in Portugal's next match but believes Martinez must be prepared to act decisively if things are not going according to plan.I would start him in Portugal's next game, but if it doesn't work, I'd be telling him he has to come off, he added.LATEST SPORTS NEWS:​Fifa ban commentator from World Cup after furious meltdownLionel Messi is ending the Cristiano Ronaldo debate at this summer's World CupThomas Tuchel makes complaint ahead of England and Ghana World Cup clashThat's what I mean though, it's whether he's allowed to be subbed because Cristiano is that powerful. It's really difficult.He's a global superstar who has done so well for so many years, but he hasn't scored for a while in a Portugal shirt and he's nowhere near his best.Martinez's relationship with Ronaldo has attracted further scrutiny after reports emerged that he has held discussions with Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr over becoming their next manager following the World Cup.The Spaniard has already confirmed he will step down from his Portugal role once the tournament concludes.Ronaldo's sister, Katia Aveiro, also entered the debate after liking a social media post comparing Bruno Fernandes to Brazil winger Raphinha.She later posted on Instagram suggesting Portugal had magically forgotten how to pass, regain possession and launch counter-attacks.Portuguese journalist Vitor Pinto warned that the fierce defence of Ronaldo could threaten squad unity.It demonstrates the risk of a civil war within the national team, Pinto said.I do not believe there was any boycott against Cristiano Ronaldo.I repeat, there was no organised boycott against Cristiano Ronaldo within the national team.Former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry also criticised Ronaldo's approach during the match, telling Fox that: The team needs to score, not you need to score.Win two tickets to a FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final. ExpressVPN are giving one lucky Friend or Member the chance to experience football's biggest tournament live, with flights and accommodation covered by GB News. Entries close 30 June. ENTER HERE. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter