The One Factor That Jose Mourinho Believes Will Hold Cristiano Ronaldo Back At The World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal open their World Cup campaign on Friday night against one of the tournament favourites, Spain.

And ahead of the 2016 European Champions kicking-off their Russian venture, Jose Mourinho has assessed Portugal's chances.

The Manchester United manager is in Russia as a pundit, and he's identified the lack of midfield cover, comparing Ronaldo's situation at club level where he has both Luka Modric and Toni Kroos in the middle of the park.

"One thing is Ronaldo for Portugal. Another is Ronaldo with Real Madrid. We don't have a Modric or a Kroos."

While Portugal boss Fernando Santos doesn't have Modric or Kroos at his disposal, he does have the likes of Bernardo Silva, Goncalo Guedes, Bruno Fernandes and Joao Moutinho, among others, in his ranks.

Silva and Guedes, in particular, will provide midfield flair. The pair enjoyed brilliant terms last season with Manchester City and Valencia, respectively, creating and scoring goals.

Portugal players during a training session. Image: PA

Ronaldo going through his paces. Image: PA

Portugal are in action on Friday versus Spain, who have endured a hectic start to the World Cup following the sacking of Julen Lopetegui, before facing Morocco then Iran.

Ronaldo in action for Portugal. Image: PA

Portugal's No.7. Image: PA

How will Portugal fare at the World Cup?

Sound off in the comment section below with your prediction.

Topics: Football News, Football, Portugal, World Cup, Cristiano Ronaldo

Nasir Jabbar

Nasir Jabbar is a journalist at SPORTbible. He graduated from Bath Spa University with a BA in Media Communications. He's a combat sport aficionado, and has contributed to MMA websites AddictedMMA and CagePotato. Nasir has covered some of the biggest fights, while interviewing the likes of Conor McGregor, Michael Bisping and Anthony Joshua. He's also an avid Bristol City fan.

@https://twitter.com/NasJabbar