Wayne Rooney has criticised Cristiano Ronaldo over his conduct during a recent dispute with the Portugal national team, saying the forward undermined his manager, team-mates and the Portuguese Football Federation.
Ronaldo stormed off at the end of a match in which he was an unused substitute before leaving the Portugal camp shortly afterwards. The 41-year-old later issued a lengthy statement on social media attacking manager Jorge Jesus.
Wayne Rooney criticises Cristiano Ronaldo
Speaking on The Overlap, Rooney said Ronaldo’s actions were unacceptable, regardless of his status as one of football’s greatest players.
“It’s just wrong in every sense from my point of view — to undermine your manager, undermine your teammates… It was just so wrong in what he done, undermined the Portuguese FA,” Rooney said.
Ronaldo’s behaviour came as he continues to adjust to no longer being an undisputed starter for Portugal. Rooney suggested the episode had damaged the forward’s reputation.
The former Manchester United team-mates have also been contrasted with Lionel Messi, who has bowed out of international duty with Argentina and received an emotional farewell match.
Rooney’s comments came with the view that Ronaldo must accept his changing circumstances and show greater dignity as he approaches the end of his top-level career.
