Portugal is close to a new era. For the first time since 2007, someone other than Cristiano Ronaldo wore the number seven on his jersey, the player’s goal helped to win

A new era? It is slowly approaching and Portugal is aware of it. Cristiano Ronaldo won’t play forever. His contribution to the team is also not so crucial anymore. Probably because of this, a turning point has occurred. For the first time since 2007, someone other than the winner of five Ballons d’Or has started with the number seven on his back.

Portugal played a friendly against Sweden on Thursday and although coach Roberto Martinez did not field a weak lineup, Cristiano Ronaldo did not even make the bench.

This was a great opportunity to kick off a bit of a new era. Why? Because for the first time since 2007, someone other than the five Ballon d’Or winner and current Al-Nasser star donned the number seven jersey.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s national teammates are also aware that he is no longer that important. Most recently, Joao Cancelo said that his peak was long past, although he still recognises the contribution of the Real Madrid legend.

So the question is what position one of the best footballers in history will have in the squad for this summer’s Euro, which will be hosted by Germany.

Will Cristiano Ronaldo lose his number seven?

Portugal took on Sweden on Thursday and had a relatively trouble-free time against their opponents, even without the winner of five Ballon d’Ors. They won 5:2 and were the better team in every aspect of the match.

It didn’t matter that Cristiano Ronaldo was missing. Roberto Martinez had other stars at his disposal. Rafael Leao, Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes, in short, other big aces, were in the line-up.

Right at the start of the second act, the man with the number seven on his back jumped on the pitch. For the first time since 2007, however, it was not Ronaldo but 29-year-old Bruma, who plays for Braga. However, in the 57th minute he proved that it was the right choice when he scored.

“We have always had a good relationship. He’s my biggest idol, but I feel it’s more of a friendship now. He is the best footballer in the world, an outstanding personality, a role model for everyone. That’s why he is important for the young players in the team,” Goal quotes Bruma as praising his famous compatriot.

Besides him, Leao, Nunes, Fernandes and Ramos were among the scorers in the match.

Source: UEFA, Transfermart