Online Reporter
The Manchester United legend, 41, walked out on Portugal’s camp this week and his future with the national team is uncertain.
The Al-Nassr veteran was irked after being an unused sub during his side’s 2-1 win over Norway last week on Sunday.
Ronaldo later demanded showdown talks with Jesus earlier this week before leaving the camp. The fallout has rocked Portugal and seen them lose over a MILLION followers.
Ronaldo promised to tell “the truth” over his exit as tension continues to mount, but he has now added insult to injury on social media. Ronaldo missed Portugal’s 4-2 win over Denmark in the Nations League on Thursday.
And after the game former Brazil star Melo slammed the team and its treatment of Ronaldo. He insisted Lionel Messi received much more respect when he played for Argentina.
Melo told SportV: “I see a grotesque difference in the players’ treatment with Cristiano Ronaldo in relation to Argentina players with (Lionel) Messi.
“I see much more respect from the opponents who play against Cristiano Ronaldo, I think that’s wrong. No one reaches the level of Cristiano Ronaldo. It’s unacceptable. You can’t let the best player in history leave like that, as if nothing had happened. You can’t.”
A clip of Melo’s rant was posted on Instagram and Ronaldo was noticeably among the names who had liked it. Ronaldo appeared to receive support from ex-United star Rasmus Hojlund, who netted for Denmark in the game and celebrated by copying his trademark “Siu” celebration.
He was then filmed giving a light push towards Portugal boss Jesus after full time.
Ronaldo’s released a full statement after his exit from the camp, vowing to explain the full reasons for his row with Jesus. He said:
“After the press conference of the national team coach, and following a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have decided to leave the national team camp.
“In due time, I will tell the truth to all Portuguese people about the reasons that motivated my departure from the national team, to which I have always devoted myself.
“Now is the time to wish Portugal and all my team-mates good luck, without exception.”
It is Ronaldo’s latest rift with Portugal after he fell out with ex-boss Fernando Santos during the 2022 World Cup. —Sun.
