Wayne Rooney Criticizes Cristiano Ronaldo’s Controversial Exit from Portugal Squad
Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has openly criticised Cristiano Ronaldo following the Portuguese star's dramatic departure from the national team camp. Rooney described Ronaldo's actions as "wrong in every sense," questioning how the forward handled tensions with coach Jorge Jesus.
Dispute Over Playing Time Sparks Fallout
The incident unfolded after Ronaldo, aged 41, was left on the bench for a 2-1 UEFA Nations League win against Norway despite warming up for half an hour. Ahead of the next match against Denmark, Ronaldo abruptly left the squad and issued a public statement accusing Jesus of breaking promises and comparing himself to legends Pele and Diego Maradona.
Public Statement Divides Opinions
Ironically, Ronaldo had previously enjoyed success under Jesus at Al-Nassr and even endorsed him for the Portugal coaching role after the 2026 World Cup. Yet his public apology to teammates combined with criticism of his manager was seen by many as disrespectful to both the team and the Portuguese Football Federation.
Rooney said on The United Stand: "My thoughts on Ronaldo are just: Why? It was the same day Lionel Messi announced his retirement from Argentina, and for him to leave the Portugal squad like that and then issue that statement... It’s wrong in every sense. To undermine your manager and teammates the way he did, it was just so wrong."
He continued, "From a football point of view, from being a teammate and a manager, it wasn’t nice to see. Every player has to finish international football eventually, and unfortunately he isn’t handling it well. It’s uncomfortable to watch."
Rooney Reacts to Ronaldo's Media Demands
Though Rooney and Ronaldo shared several successful years at Old Trafford under Sir Alex Ferguson, winning three Premier League titles and the Champions League, Rooney was particularly upset by Ronaldo's attempt to dictate what Jesus should say in a press conference.
"You can’t tell a manager what he has to say," Rooney added. "That just goes beyond anything I’ve ever seen."
Investigation Puts Ronaldo’s Future With Portugal Uncertain
The Portuguese Football Federation responded by suspending Ronaldo on October 10 while launching an urgent independent disciplinary investigation. Until the probe concludes, Ronaldo is barred from all national team activities ahead of the upcoming international fixtures.
Coach Jorge Jesus has reaffirmed his position but kept the door open for Ronaldo's return. Meanwhile, the striker insists he remains willing to be selected again for Portugal.
- Event: UEFA Nations League match vs Norway
- Result: Portugal won 2-1
- Ronaldo's action: Left bench after warming up for 30 minutes, exited squad before Denmark game
- Statement: Apologized to teammates but criticised coach Jorge Jesus
- Disciplinary action: Provisional suspension from national team pending investigation
- Coach's response: Maintained authority, open to future selection of Ronaldo
