Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has expressed his disappointment with the way Cristiano Ronaldo has been managed by Portugal. Ferguson made the remarks amid the ongoing controversy surrounding Ronaldo's departure from the Portugal camp following reports of tensions with head coach Jorge Jesus. Ronaldo, 41, left the national team camp after revealing that discussions with the coach and officials of the Portuguese Football Federation had led to his decision.
Ferguson questioned the decision to include Ronaldo in the squad if there was no intention of using him. "If Jorge Jesus knew in his heart he had no intention of using him, then why call him up in the first place?" Ferguson said. He described this move as a sign of insecurity rather than authority. Ferguson, who signed Ronaldo from Sporting Lisbon as an 18-year-old in 2003, praised the forward's professionalism, work ethic and commitment throughout his career.
Ferguson highlighted Ronaldo's contribution to Portuguese football, describing him as a player who transformed the country's status on the global stage. "If people have forgotten what Cristiano has done for Portuguese football over the last 20 years, the rest of the world hasn't," he said. Ronaldo remains Portugal's all-time leading goalscorer with 138 international goals and has indicated that he has not yet retired from international football.
The former United manager noted that Ronaldo's age should naturally influence how he is managed, stressing that no one expects the forward to perform physically in the same way he did during his peak years. "Nobody expects a 41-year-old to run the channels for 90 minutes or sprint like he did in his prime at Old Trafford," he said. Ferguson emphasised that Ronaldo's experience and leadership are still valuable assets to the team.
Ferguson also reflected on his personal knowledge of Ronaldo, describing him as a dedicated and driven individual. "I know the boy inside out," Ferguson said. "I know the absolute dedication, work ethic and obsession with winning that runs through his veins." This, Ferguson believes, is what has driven Ronaldo's success throughout his career.
The Portugal camp has been under intense scrutiny since Ronaldo's departure, with supporters reacting strongly on social media amid continued speculation over his relationship with Jorge Jesus. The situation has sparked a heated debate about the management of veteran players and the expectations surrounding their roles in the team.
Ronaldo later stated that he would explain the reasons for his exit at a later date. As the situation continues to unfold, Ferguson's comments have added fuel to the debate, highlighting the need for wisdom, tact and dignity in managing a player of Ronaldo's stature.
Key points
- Sir Alex Ferguson criticises Portugal's handling of Cristiano Ronaldo
- Ferguson praises Ronaldo's professionalism and contribution to Portuguese football
- Ronaldo's departure sparks intense debate about managing veteran players
