Wayne Rooney once again launched a forceful criticism of Cristiano Ronaldo after the Portuguese striker's controversial departure from the national team's training camp. On the “Stick to United” program, the former Manchester United striker expressed his displeasure at the way in which Ronaldo had undermined the coach and his teammates, calling the attitude “very wrong.”
Rooney recalled the episode in which Ronaldo tried to publicly influence the coach's speech, an action that, according to the Englishman, "you can't tell a coach what he has to say." The former Red Devils player added that the situation was “uncomfortable to watch”, stressing that Ronaldo's behavior did not conform to the professionalism expected of a player of his caliber.
Rooney's comment was not limited to specific criticism. The former England international also reflected on the time in Ronaldo's career with the Portuguese team. “The time comes for all players to leave international football,” said Rooney, noting that, unlike his colleagues, Ronaldo “is not coping well.” According to the commentator, the way in which the Portuguese star handles his international retirement is “uncomfortable to watch.”
The controversy occurs in a selection window where Portugal is preparing for its qualifying matches. While the national team continues to work on cohesion and strategy, Ronaldo's departure has sparked a debate about the maturity and responsibility of veteran players.
As for the future, the Portuguese national team will continue to evaluate Ronaldo's position in the team. Meanwhile, Manchester United and the sports press continue to closely follow the statements of Rooney, who appears to maintain a critical stance towards his former teammate's conduct. The next step will be to observe how the team's management handles the transition of one of its most emblematic players.