Ronaldo Should End Portugal Career – Bardsley

Former Premier League defender Phil Bardsley has called on Cristiano Ronaldo to retire from international football with Portugal, arguing that the national team needs a younger player to become its focal point.

Bardsley’s comments followed Ronaldo’s frustrating display against Wales, which drew criticism from pundits and fans. The all-time leading scorer in international football struggled to make an impact, and Bardsley said the veteran forward appeared unable to cope with the physical demands and intensity of the match.

Speaking to Lyllo Casino, Bardsley said Ronaldo should follow Lionel Messi’s example by stepping away from the international stage.

“With the games coming up, I thought Cristiano Ronaldo might have called time on his international career, to be perfectly honest. I think he should follow in Lionel Messi’s footsteps there,” he said.

“I feel like he’s getting to that stage now where the team probably needs a younger player as a focal point to step in and take over as the star player.

“I think he’ll continue this year, and maybe next year will be his last in Saudi. I’m not sure on the international front whether he can keep performing at the European level, but what he’s done is amazing.

“He just needs a few more goals to hit that 1000 goal total and I’m sure he’ll do it, I don’t think he’ll stop before he does. I wish him all the best for that, what he’s done in football has been incredible.

“For Portugal, if he gets to that 150-goal mark, I think that’d be it for him. It’s some return, by the way.

“I think Messi as well made the right call. He can’t do any more, he’s won the World Cup. It’s just amazing what they’ve done, and credit to them for still giving it everything they had in the World Cup.

“They’re a pleasure to watch. But it gets to the point where you’ve got to hand the baton over.”

Bardsley added that Portugal should begin transitioning away from relying on Ronaldo, allowing younger attacking talents to take greater responsibility. He also praised the forward’s career, describing his achievements as incredible.