Both Cristiano Ronaldo and Fernando Santos believe that Portugal can go on to have more success after winning the UEFA Nations League on Sunday.
This is Santos‘ second international trophy as Portugal coach having already led them to Euro 2016 glory in France.
“Winning these two trophies leaves a big mark on Portuguese football,” Santossaid.
“Winning the first edition of the Nations League is historic because the whole European football family take part and I’m sure that it will become a classic [trophy].”
The Portuguese squad has undergone plenty of changes since winning their first title as a country three years ago, with a more youthful look about the current set-up.
“The future is here, knocking at the door. Many of the European champions from 2016 are no longer here,” Santos said.
Ricardo Carvalho, Nani and Bruno Alves are among several senior players that are now out of the picture.
Now, the likes of Joao Felix, Bruno Fernandes and Ruben Dias are proving that the Portuguese conveyor belt of talent is still producing.
“We have lots of talent. The future is guaranteed, but we have to try and find the balance,” Santos said.
With youngsters like Felix and Dias at the heart of Benfica league title win and Porto claiming the latest UEFA Youth League title, Portugal‘s chances of winning more major tournaments look incredibly promising.
They’ve also still got Cristiano Ronaldo among their ranks. Euro 2020 and the World Cup in 2022 present the last realistic opportunities for the Juventusforward to win more silverware with his country.
“This national team has a lot of potential to keep evolving,” Ronaldo said.
“I’m sure that Portugal will win more important trophies in the future.
“I still feel useful and I’m motivated to play for Portugal, but Cristiano isn’t going to be eternal. There will be a day when I’m not here… but that’s many, many years away.”
Source: https://www.marca.com/en/football/international-football/2019/06/10/5cfe4163268e3e41508b459a.html