Man Utd icon Cristiano Ronaldo facing ‘role change’ with Portugal at Euro 2024

Cristiano Ronaldo is set to embrace a new challenge at Euro 2024 – potentially entering the fray from the bench rather than commanding his usual starting role with Portugal.

The legendary forward, who boasts an impressive tally of 130 goals and 46 assists in 207 appearances for Portugal, has been a pillar of strength for the national team over the years. With Euro 2024 possibly marking his final bow on the international stage, former Manchester United team-mate Wes Brown shed light on the altered role Ronaldo might assume during the tournament.

Speaking on Reach's new Euro Thrash podcast - which you can find on YouTube, Apple and Spotify - Brown said: "I think he will start, but ultimately I don't think he's going to play the whole game. I think he'll understand that. He's a great player to have coming off the bench, someone who is a shoo-in for goals, with his scoring record.

READ MORE: Cristiano Ronaldo issues stunning response to Man United teammate before Euro 2024

READ MORE: Every record Cristiano Ronaldo could break at Euro 2024 as Man United legend fired major warning

"It is as simple as that. I do think he will play a different role. And it will be good for him to not play a game. He will just come on for 20 minutes, and then see how far they can get."

Brown, who clinched two Champions League titles and five Premier League crowns with United, also highlighted that Ronaldo would likely refrain from openly criticising Portugal manager Roberto Martinez over such a decision, out of mutual "respect" between the two, reports the Mirror.

Brown added: "You've got to respect the manager and the manager will respect Ronaldo. It's as simple as that with what he's achieved in football, and they will have that discussion