Wayne Rooney has reignited his long-standing rivalry with former Manchester United team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo after Portugal's 2026 World Cup exit, suggesting the Portuguese players do not look like they enjoy playing alongside their captain.
Rooney's BBC Analysis
Speaking as a BBC pundit following Portugal's elimination by Spain, Rooney drew a stark contrast between Ronaldo's Portugal and Lionel Messi's Argentina. "You always put Ronaldo and Messi together because they are two of the best players the game has ever seen," Rooney said. "But the Argentinian lads seem like they're all there for Messi. They're all behind him. Messi has obviously been fantastic at this World Cup. I don't get that vibe from the Portuguese players."
Critique of Portugal's Tactics
Rooney also criticised Portugal's midfield, particularly Bruno Fernandes, for failing to utilise Ronaldo's strengths inside the penalty area. He acknowledged that the 41-year-old's mobility has waned but stressed that Ronaldo remains a massive threat when provided with proper service. Rooney expressed frustration that Portuguese players repeatedly opted to pass the ball around rather than delivering crosses to their captain.
History of Tensions
The first major flashpoint between Rooney and Ronaldo occurred during the 2006 World Cup, when Ronaldo famously advocated for Rooney's dismissal after a foul. Ronaldo was caught winking at the Portuguese bench after Rooney received a red card, sparking fury from the English press and fans. Despite reconciling and winning numerous trophies together at Manchester United under Sir Alex Ferguson, subtle tensions have resurfaced since their departures from Old Trafford.
Recent Public Spats
During Ronaldo's tumultuous second stint at Manchester United, Rooney publicly criticised his conduct as detrimental to the squad, calling it "simply unacceptable for a club of United's stature." In a more lighthearted moment in 2025, Rooney risked drawing Ronaldo's ire by jokingly mistaking him for former team-mate Carlos Tevez in a video, acknowledging the proud Portuguese star would likely be fuming at the comparison.
Mixed Legacy
The complex relationship between Rooney and Ronaldo remains a blend of immense mutual respect and candid public critique. While their shared history is defined by spectacular triumphs, Rooney has never shied away from voicing uncomfortable truths about his iconic former colleague.
