Ferguson Backs Ronaldo, Criticises Portugal’s Handling Of Veteran Star

Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has criticised the way Cristiano Ronaldo has been managed by Portugal, saying the veteran forward deserves “wisdom, tact and dignity” after more than two decades of service to his country.

Ferguson made the remarks amid the ongoing controversy surrounding Ronaldo’s departure from the Portugal camp following reports of tensions with head coach Jorge Jesus.

Ronaldo, 41, left the national team camp this week after revealing that discussions with the coach and officials of the Portuguese Football Federation had led to his decision. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner later stated that he would explain the reasons for his exit at a later date.

Reflecting on the situation, Ferguson said he was saddened by developments within the Portugal set-up and questioned the decision to include Ronaldo in the squad if there was no intention of using him.

“If Jorge Jesus knew in his heart he had no intention of using him, then why call him up in the first place?” Ferguson said.

“To make a point? That isn’t authority — that’s insecurity.”

The former United manager, who signed Ronaldo from Sporting Lisbon as an 18-year-old in 2003, praised the forward’s professionalism, work ethic and commitment throughout his career.

“I know the boy inside out,” Ferguson said.

“I know the absolute dedication, work ethic and obsession with winning that runs through his veins.”

Ferguson noted that Ronaldo’s age should naturally influence how he is managed, stressing that no one expects the forward to perform physically in the same way he did during his peak years.

“Nobody expects a 41-year-old to run the channels for 90 minutes or sprint like he did in his prime at Old Trafford,” he said.

“When you have a sportsman of that stature in your squad, you have a duty to manage him with wisdom, tact and dignity.”

Ferguson also highlighted Ronaldo’s contribution to Portuguese football, describing him as a player who transformed the country’s status on the global stage.

“If people have forgotten what Cristiano has done for Portuguese football over the last 20 years, the rest of the world hasn’t,” he said.

“That boy carried an entire nation on his shoulders for two decades — the goals, the records, the European Championship, the sheer belief he brought to his country.”

The Portugal camp has been under intense scrutiny since Ronaldo’s departure, with supporters reacting strongly on social media amid continued speculation over his relationship with Jorge Jesus.

Ronaldo remains Portugal’s all-time leading goalscorer with 138 international goals and has indicated that he has not yet retired from international football.