Portugal: ‘It Makes It Difficult To Like You’ – Gary Neville Slams Cristiano Ronaldo

Former Manchester United star Gary Neville has criticised Cristiano Ronaldo’s conduct and public statement following his unexpected departure from the Portugal national team.

Ronaldo reportedly left the squad shortly before Portugal’s encounter with Denmark following a disagreement with coach Jorge Jesus. The decision came after the Portuguese manager’s media briefing ahead of the match.

In a lengthy statement, Ronaldo explained his reasons for leaving and expressed disappointment over Jesus’ decision not to play him in a UEFA Nations League fixture against Norway. He also alleged that the coach had failed to honour previous promises.

Speaking on The Overlap, Neville said he was disappointed with Ronaldo’s attitude and could not support the statement he released.

“I actually love him to bits. I can’t sit here and say I approve of that statement and think it was a good thing for him to do; it makes him more difficult to like,” Neville said.

He added: “If you love him, it makes him more difficult to like; if you don’t like him, it makes you dislike him even more.”

Neville, however, believes Ronaldo’s legacy will ultimately outweigh the controversy surrounding his departure from the national team. “In another year, when he’s retired, we will look back upon his greatness in football, and people won’t remember this ending,” he said.

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Ronaldo has apologised to his teammates and the Portuguese public for his sudden withdrawal, reaffirmed that he was not retiring from international football, and said he was prepared to accept any disciplinary measures. Reports have also indicated that he was suspended by the Portuguese Football Federation, although the duration and further consequences remain unclear.