According to a report by footballTransfers on Thursday October 15, 2026, Wayne Rooney has criticised Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to leave Portugal’s squad during the international break, saying the way the episode unfolded was uncomfortable to watch.

Ronaldo returned to Saudi Arabia after being left on the bench for Portugal’s Nations League match against Norway. His departure prompted questions about his international future and came amid reports of tension with head coach Jorge Jesus.

Ronaldo later addressed the situation in a lengthy Instagram post. He claimed Jesus had gone back on a promise to give him 30 minutes of playing time against Norway.

The forward acknowledged that leaving the squad could result in disciplinary action, but stressed that he had no intention of retiring from international football.

Rooney, Ronaldo’s former Manchester United teammate, said the forward’s actions had undermined not only the coach but also his fellow players and the Portuguese Football Federation. He also pointed out that Portugal won both matches after Ronaldo left the squad.

“My thoughts on Ronaldo are just: ‘Why?’” Rooney said on Stick to United. “For him to come out of the Portugal squad in that way, then put that statement out, it’s just wrong in every sense.”

Rooney added that the situation was difficult to watch from the perspective of a former teammate and someone who understands the responsibilities of managing a team.

He said that every player eventually has to bring their international career to an end, but felt Ronaldo was not handling that stage well.

“It comes to every player. You have to finish international football, and unfortunately he’s not dealing with it well. It’s uncomfortable to see,” Rooney said.

Away from the football controversy, boxing trainer Malik Scott has suggested that Ronaldo and Rooney could face each other in a showcase boxing match.

Scott, who has worked with former heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder, believes a bout between the two high-profile former teammates would attract a worldwide audience.

Scott has argued that celebrity events can bring new viewers to boxing, provided audiences treat them as entertainment. A Rooney Ronaldo matchup, he said, would be a major spectacle because of the pair’s global recognition.