AC ilan striker Gonçalo Ramos has insisted that he deserves a regular starting role in Portugal’s national team, despite the expected return of Cristiano Ronaldo for the country’s November Nations League fixtures.
The 25-year-old forward made the most of Ronaldo’s absence during Portugal’s last international break, starting the final three matches and scoring in each of them.
Portugal won all four of their Group A4 matches to secure qualification for the quarter-finals, with Ramos playing an important role in the team’s impressive run.
Speaking on Canal 11’s programme Soltinhos pelo Mundo, broadcast in two parts on October 27 and 28, Ramos expressed his desire to become a regular starter for the national team.
He said, “I want to be a starter for the national team. I’ve made it clear that if anyone deserves to play, it’s me. The coach and the entire country can see that.”
However, the AC Milan striker was quick to clarify that his ambition does not mean he wants Ronaldo dropped from the starting lineup.
Instead, Ramos believes the two forwards can operate together and pointed to Portugal’s Euro 2024 qualifier against Slovakia in October 2023 as an example.
Both players started that encounter, with Ronaldo scoring twice in a 3-2 victory.
He explained that his current form should give him an opportunity to play alongside the veteran forward rather than replace him.
“We respect Cristiano’s status, but I think we could play together more often. My good form and goals could be rewarded without dropping Cristiano.”
Ramos also expressed disappointment over his limited involvement in Portugal’s last two major international tournaments, insisting that he deserved more opportunities despite his contributions.
The striker maintained that he had no personal issues with former Portugal manager Roberto Martínez but admitted that missing out on regular playing time at Euro 2024 was difficult to accept.
“I have no resentment towards Roberto Martínez, but I lost Euro 2024. I only played 15 minutes against Georgia in a game that meant nothing.
“At the 2026 World Cup, I scored against Croatia but barely played after that. I know I could have helped a lot.
“I missed two major tournaments that will never come back.”
Meanwhile, Ronaldo has been included in Portugal’s provisional squad for their upcoming Nations League fixtures against Denmark and Wales.
Portugal are scheduled to host Denmark in Braga on November 14 before travelling to Cardiff to face Wales on November 17. The final squad is expected to be announced on November 6.
The 41-year-old’s return follows the expiration of his 30-day suspension imposed by the Portuguese Football Federation, FPF, after he left the national team camp in September. The disciplinary measure, which also included a €255 fine, ended on October 30.