Former England striker Gary Lineker has expressed sadness over the way Cristiano Ronaldo’s international career appears to be winding down, saying the Portugal great deserves a farewell similar to the emotional send-off received by Lionel Messi.
Ronaldo’s future with Portugal has become a talking point following a lengthy statement issued by the veteran forward on Tuesday. The more than 1,700-word statement, initially shared with Portuguese media and later posted on his social media accounts, addressed his version of events surrounding his recent discussions with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus.
The dispute centres on Ronaldo’s involvement in Portugal’s Nations League fixtures and what he says had initially been agreed with the new coach.
According to Ronaldo, the understanding was that he would start against Wales on September 24, sit out the matches against Norway on September 27 and Denmark on October 1, before playing in the return fixture against Norway on October 4.
Ronaldo said Jesus did not believe he needed to travel for the two middle matches. However, the Portugal captain said he wanted to remain with the squad even if he was not selected to play, arguing that his presence would set an example for the team.
Lineker, speaking to reporters at the Leaders Week sports industry conference at Stamford Bridge, said the situation was unfortunate given Ronaldo’s extraordinary contribution to football.
“I think it’s a bit sad because he’s been so great. And ultimately in five years, 10 years’ time, no one will remember this. We’ll just remember how great he was,” Lineker said.
He compared Ronaldo’s situation with Messi’s recent international farewell, describing the Argentine’s send-off as a particularly memorable occasion.
“But I think if you look at Messi’s farewell, it was so beautiful. And I think Cristiano deserves the same,” Lineker added.
Ronaldo and Messi are widely regarded as two of the greatest footballers in history. Their rivalry dominated world football for much of the past two decades, with the pair competing for major individual and team honours.
Messi has won a record eight Ballon d’Or awards, while Ronaldo has claimed the prestigious prize five times. Neither player, however, is among the leading contenders for this year’s award.
With Ronaldo’s international career seemingly approaching its final chapter, Lineker believes the Portuguese superstar should be remembered primarily for the remarkable achievements that made him one of football’s all-time greats.
