Manchester United legend, Wayne Rooney has offered his views on Cristiano Ronaldo’s abrupt departure from the Portuguese national team earlier this month.
Ronaldo ended his involvement with the Portugal national team following a disagreement with manager, Jorge Jesus.
In a comprehensive statement, Ronaldo explained his reasons, asserting that Jesus had failed to fulfil his commitments, thereby necessitating his withdrawal.
Ronaldo, however, apologised to his fellow players and supporters while expressing his readiness to accept any disciplinary measures imposed by the Portuguese Football Association.
The association subsequently imposed a provisional suspension on him following his unexpected departure.
Rooney, one of Cristiano Ronaldo’s former teammates, has shared his perspective on the matter.
During an appearance on The Stick to United podcast, Rooney expressed his disapproval of Ronaldo’s conduct.
“He’s such a great player, and I think when you see, was it the same day Messi was retiring from Argentina?
“And then for him to come out of the Portugal squad that way and then put that statement out is just wrong in every sense, from my point of view.
“To undermine your manager, to undermine your teammates the way he has, is just so wrong. Everything about it is just wrong, from a footballing point of view,” Rooney said.
Rooney further suggested that Cristiano Ronaldo was struggling to accept the reality that his international career was approaching its end, which he believed accounted for his current behaviour.
He added: “The unfortunate reality is that this situation confronts every player. One must eventually end one’s international career, and regrettably, he is managing this transition poorly, rendering the situation increasingly uncomfortable to watch.
“You cannot dictate to the manager what statements must be made during a press conference; such conduct transcends anything I have previously encountered.”