Rio Ferdinand says Cristiano Ronaldo’s legacy cannot be judged by recent years alone

Rio Ferdinand has defended his friend Cristiano Ronaldo, saying the Portugal captain’s career must be assessed across his long list of achievements rather than only by his performances over the past three or four years.

The former Manchester United defender was speaking amid continued debate about Ronaldo’s current position after the Portugal captain left the national team camp before their Nations League match against Denmark.

Ferdinand said criticism of Ronaldo failed to reflect the full extent of his career with both club and country. He argued that Ronaldo’s recent form should not overshadow the contribution he made to Portugal over many years, as well as the exceptional figures and honours he collected during his time at the highest level.

In a video posted on his social media accounts, Ferdinand said: “Where were Portugal before Cristiano Ronaldo? What did they achieve? Even qualifying for the latter stages, let alone winning?

“What annoys me is that so many people judge him based on the last three or four years.”

Ferdinand also pointed to Ronaldo’s continued goalscoring and statistics despite his age, saying they remained remarkable regardless of the league in which he was playing.

“He still produces incredible numbers for somebody of his age, regardless of the league he plays in,” Ferdinand added.

The former Manchester United player said Ronaldo’s international career was only one part of a wider legacy that included major spells with Juventus, Real Madrid and Manchester United.

Ronaldo did not build his reputation on one successful period, Ferdinand suggested, but made a lasting impact across several clubs and over an extended career. He cited the forward’s achievements in Italy, Spain and England as evidence that his contribution should be viewed in its entirety.

“I think a lot of people need to reconsider,” Ferdinand said. “Look, for example, at Juventus and what he was doing there, then he moved to Real Madrid, and then to Manchester United.

“That is almost three world-class careers in one career.”

Ferdinand said Ronaldo’s footballing legacy could not be reduced to his performances in recent seasons, even with the criticism currently surrounding the Portugal captain.