Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has defended Cristiano Ronaldo while questioning the criticism the Portugal captain has faced in recent years.
Ferdinand made the comments on X after Ronaldo left the Portugal squad before their UEFA Nations League victory over Denmark on Thursday.
The former England defender called for more respect for Ronaldo’s career and questioned what Portugal achieved before the Al-Nassr forward became a key figure for the national team.
“Where was Portugal before Cristiano Ronaldo? What have they ever done? Did they even qualify for tournaments? Let alone win anything,” Ferdinand said.
He also argued that Ronaldo’s recent years should not erase what he has continued to achieve.
“What annoys me is that many people judge him on his last three or four years. He is still producing fantastic numbers for someone of his age.”
Ferdinand and Ronaldo played together at Manchester United, where they won both the UEFA Champions League and the Premier League.
