Portuguese journalist condemns Ronaldo’s international retirement as a ‘disgrace’

Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to retire from international football has been described as “a disgrace” by Portuguese journalist Luis Villar.

Ronaldo announced his retirement on Thursday, ending a remarkable Portugal career in which he won three major international trophies: two UEFA Nations League titles and one European Championship.

The 146-goal record scorer also provided 45 assists in 234 appearances for his country.

“Everyone in Portugal was shocked by Ronaldo’s decision to retire,” Villar said on the Fi al-Merma programme on Al Arabiya.

Villar claimed Ronaldo had decided to leave the national team because he did not want to play under manager Jorge Jesus. He also criticised the way the coach had dealt with the situation.

“Ronaldo made the decision to retire because he does not want to play under Jorge Jesus, but the manager handled the matter incorrectly,” Villar said.

“We are talking about the best player in the history of Portugal.”

Ronaldo’s form had come under scrutiny, but Villar said responsibility for Portugal’s performances could not be placed solely on the forward.

“Ronaldo was, and will always be, the best player in the history of Portugal,” he added. “I agree that he did not produce his extraordinary levels, but the national team was not good either, and he cannot be blamed for everything.”

Villar said Ronaldo deserved greater recognition for his contribution to the country and labelled him one of football’s legends.

“Ronaldo gave Portugal so much and should have been appreciated in the right way, because he is one of the legends of football,” he said.

The fixture listings accompanying the report include Al Hazm and Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League on 6 November 2026. Portugal are also listed to face Denmark in UEFA Nations League – Path A on 14 November 2026.