Former Barcelona midfielder Arturo Vidal has criticised Portugal coach Jorge Jesus over his treatment of Cristiano Ronaldo, describing the situation surrounding the legendary forward as “complete disrespect.”
The Chilean international has thrown his support behind Ronaldo amid growing controversy following the reported incident at Portugal’s national team camp, where the 41-year-old forward was left on the bench during the 2-1 victory over Norway.
Ronaldo’s reported departure from the Portugal camp after being named an unused substitute has sparked widespread debate about his relationship with the national team’s coaching staff and his continued role in Portuguese football.
The controversy intensified after Portugal reportedly handed Ronaldo’s iconic No. 7 shirt to Rafael Leao ahead of the upcoming Nations League fixtures against Denmark and Norway. British broadcaster Piers Morgan also reacted angrily to the development, describing the decision as “disgusting” and “shameful.”
Arturo Vidal Defends Cristiano Ronaldo Against Jorge Jesus
Speaking to Portuguese newspaper A Bola on Friday, Vidal expressed disappointment over the way Ronaldo was reportedly treated, insisting that a player of his stature deserves greater respect and appreciation.
The former Juventus, Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen and Inter Milan midfielder described Ronaldo as one of the greatest footballers in history and questioned the circumstances surrounding his reported departure from the national team camp.
“Honestly, this is shameful. A player like Cristiano, who is one of the four best players in the history of football, and everyone would place him first, second or third, leaving the national team in this way. This is very bad,” Vidal said.
The former Barcelona star directed particular criticism at Jorge Jesus, arguing that the Portugal coach should recognise Ronaldo’s immense contributions to the national team and ensure that the veteran forward receives appropriate treatment.
“I think the coach came across very badly. Cristiano must be cared for and protected, as he is a player who has given everything for Portugal and made the national team one of the best teams in the world,” Vidal added.
He further maintained that Ronaldo has earned the right to make decisions about his international career after years of service to Portuguese football.
“A player like this cannot leave in this way. Cristiano has the right to do what he wants. What he has given to football and to the Portugal national team is that he took them to another level. There are coaches who do not respect these things,” he stated.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Legacy With Portugal
Ronaldo made his senior international debut for Portugal on August 20, 2003, at the age of 18, coming on as a substitute against Kazakhstan.
He scored his first international goal at UEFA Euro 2004 in Portugal’s 2-1 group-stage defeat to Greece. Despite the loss, Ronaldo played a significant role in the tournament, recording two goals and two assists as Portugal reached the final and finished as runners-up.
At the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, Ronaldo became Portugal’s youngest-ever goalscorer at a World Cup finals at the age of 21 years and 132 days. He helped the team reach the semi-finals, where they were eliminated by France.
Ronaldo subsequently established himself as one of the most influential players in Portuguese football history, captaining the national team to victory at Euro 2016, Portugal’s first major international trophy.
He also played a key role in Portugal’s UEFA Nations League triumphs in 2019 and 2025, further cementing his legacy as one of the country’s most decorated footballers.
Ronaldo’s Portugal Future Sparks Debate
The latest controversy has renewed discussions about Ronaldo’s position in the Portugal squad, particularly as the veteran forward continues his international career at 41.
His reported exclusion from the starting lineup against Norway, followed by the reported change involving his famous No. 7 shirt, has drawn reactions from former players, football analysts and supporters.
Vidal’s comments highlight the debate over how national team coaches should manage experienced footballers who have made significant contributions to their countries, particularly as teams balance established stars with emerging talents.
While the situation has attracted criticism of Jorge Jesus, the circumstances surrounding Ronaldo’s reported departure and the decision to reassign the No. 7 shirt remain central to the ongoing discussion.
The developments have placed further attention on Portugal’s preparations for their upcoming Nations League matches against Denmark and Norway, as supporters await clarity on Ronaldo’s future involvement with the national team.
