Three of Spain’s key figures have come out in support of Cristiano Ronaldo before facing Portugal.
The two Iberian sides clash in the World Cup last 16, with 40-year-old Ronaldo still the biggest attraction.
Ronaldo has come in for some heat over tricky performances, particularly against Croatia and DR Congo.
Yet Roberto Martinez continues to start him, and his opponents think they know why.
Gavi defends Ronaldo
Responding to critique, Barcelona midfielder Gavi said: “I always hear that, but from people who aren’t on his team, from fans.
“Those who are on his team have immense respect for him.
“Obviously, Cristiano is one of the best players in history and he can make the difference at any moment.”
Head coach Luis de la Fuente was similarly full of praise.
“I’m a huge admirer of Cristiano, of people like him,” he said.
“Strong character, tireless. A role model. I’m in awe of him. It’s not the legacy he’s leaving, but the one he’s going to leave.
“We have to be aware of him in every situation. It’s not about man-marking him, but we do have to be aware of him everywhere on the pitch.
“I’d prefer he didn’t play, but he will. We’ll enjoy seeing one of the best players in history on the field.”
Simon joins in with Ronaldo support
Lastly, the man tasked with stopping his shots, Union Simon, also distanced himself from any criticism.
“The Cristiano we have at the World Cup isn’t the same one we saw six or seven years ago at Real Madrid or in that prime,” he said.
“But it’s true that we have to try to keep him as far away from the penalty area as possible.”
Whatever your views on Ronaldo, this will be one of the last chances to watch him at the World Cup.
Before the match, the Al Nassr striker said he was calling it a day with international football.
Ronaldo announces international retirement
“I want to enjoy it as much as possible, because it will be my last World Cup, yes,” he said.
“But I hope that tomorrow won’t be my last game in the World Cup … I’ll retire when I want to, not when you want me to. It’s a waste of time to keep asking that question.
“But I don’t want to draw attention to that. The most important thing is tomorrow.”
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