Wayne Rooney Criticizes Cristiano Ronaldo's Controversial Portugal Exit
Wayne Rooney Condemns Cristiano Ronaldo's Departure from Portugal Squad
Wayne Rooney, former Manchester United star, has openly criticized Cristiano Ronaldo's conduct after the veteran striker abruptly left the Portugal national team during the recent international break. Rooney questioned how Ronaldo handled his fallout with coach Jorge Jesus, calling the behavior "wrong in every sense."
Conflict Over Playing Time Leads to Fallout
Ronaldo’s exit followed a dispute over his lack of playing time. The 41-year-old forward was left on the bench for the entire match against Norway, despite warming up for 30 minutes. Afterward, Ronaldo walked out before the game against Denmark and released a public statement accusing Jesus of breaking promises, even comparing himself to legends like Pelé and Diego Maradona.
Public Statement Draws Backlash
Interestingly, Ronaldo had previously won trophies under Jorge Jesus at Al-Nassr and even recommended him for the Portugal job after the 2026 World Cup. Yet his public apology to teammates combined with criticism of the coach sparked anger within the squad and federation.
Speaking on The United Stand, Rooney said:
"My thoughts on Ronaldo is just: Why? It was the same day Lionel Messi was retiring from Argentina and for him to come out of the Portugal squad in that way, then put that statement out... It’s just wrong in every sense.
To undermine your manager, undermine your teammates the way he has - it was just so wrong. To undermine the Portuguese FA, everything about it was just wrong. From a football point of view, from being a teammate and a manager, it wasn’t nice to see.
It comes to every player. You have to finish international football and unfortunately he’s not dealing with it well. It’s uncomfortable to see."
Dispute Over Manager's Press Conference
Rooney and Ronaldo shared memorable years under Sir Alex Ferguson between 2004 and 2009, winning three Premier League titles and the Champions League together before Ronaldo moved to Real Madrid. Despite this history, Rooney was particularly upset by Ronaldo trying to dictate what Jorge Jesus should say during a press conference.
He added, "You can’t tell a manager what he’s got to say. That just goes beyond anything I’ve ever seen."
Ronaldo Faces Disciplinary Action
Ronaldo's future with Portugal remains uncertain after the Portuguese Football Federation imposed a provisional suspension on October 10 while an independent disciplinary investigation takes place. He is barred from any national team activity until further notice. Jorge Jesus has kept his position but left the possibility open for Ronaldo’s return, and the striker says he remains ready for selection.
- Date of Suspension: October 10, 2026
- Reason: Disciplinary investigation following walkout
- Current Status: Suspended from national team activities
- Coach: Jorge Jesus
- Former Shared History: Played together at Manchester United (2004-2009)
