Wayne Rooney Criticizes Cristiano Ronaldo’s Controversial Exit from Portugal Squad

Wayne Rooney Questions Cristiano Ronaldo's Conduct After Portugal Exit

Former Manchester United star Wayne Rooney has openly criticized Cristiano Ronaldo's actions, calling them "wrong in every sense" following the striker's dramatic departure from the Portugal national team camp. The retired England international expressed his concerns about how his former teammate handled the fallout with Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus.

Rooney Condemns Ronaldo’s Decision to Leave Team Camp

The incident stemmed from a dispute over playing time during the recent UEFA Nations League matches. Despite warming up for 30 minutes in the 2-1 win against Norway, the 41-year-old forward was left on the bench and unused. This led to Ronaldo walking out before the next game against Denmark, releasing a statement accusing the coach of breaking promises and comparing himself to legends like Pelé and Diego Maradona.

Public Statement Sparks Backlash

Interestingly, Ronaldo had previously won trophies under Jorge Jesus at Al-Nassr and even supported his appointment as Portugal’s coach after the 2026 World Cup. His public apology to teammates, combined with criticism of the manager, was seen as disrespectful by many within the squad and federation.

"My thoughts on Ronaldo are 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," Rooney said during an appearance on The United Stand.

He added, "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."

Rooney Reacts to Ronaldo's Attempt to Influence Coach's Comments

Rooney and Ronaldo shared success at Manchester United between 2004 and 2009, winning three Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy together. Despite their history, Rooney was particularly upset by Ronaldo’s demand that Jorge Jesus clarify certain points during a press conference, stating:

"You can’t tell a manager what he’s got to say. That just goes beyond anything I’ve ever seen."

Disciplinary Investigation Puts Ronaldo's International Future in Question

The Portuguese Football Federation responded to the situation by suspending Ronaldo provisionally on October 10, pending an urgent independent investigation. While this inquiry continues, Ronaldo is barred from any national team activities ahead of the upcoming international window. Jesus has stood firm but left open the possibility of Ronaldo’s return, with the striker insisting he remains ready for future selection.

• Date of Suspension: October 10, 2026
• Reason: Urgent independent disciplinary probe
• Current Status: Barred from national team activity pending investigation
• Coach: Jorge Jesus
• Ronaldo's Age: 41