Former England and Arsenal star Ian Wright has cast doubt on Cristiano Ronaldo’s ability to perform at the highest level, following Portugal’s elimination from Euro 2024 after a penalty shootout loss to France. Despite Ronaldo’s prolific season with Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, where goals were expected from the Portuguese forward, he failed to score in a major competition for the first time in his illustrious career.
As Portugal exited the tournament, questions are swirling around Ronaldo’s future on the international stage.
Wright expressed disappointment at Ronaldo’s performance in Euro 2024, suggesting that even his compatriot Diogo Jota may have been frustrated by a lack of opportunities.
“Portugal should be very disappointed about that [Euro 2024 exit] simply because of how talented their team is – from defense to attack. The way Cristiano Ronaldo played in Euro 2024, as great as he’s been, surely Diogo Jota must be disappointed that he couldn’t get on the pitch,” Wright commented on Sky Sports’ Stick to Football: The Overlap Special, as quoted by Goal.com.
“In my observation of him [Cristiano Ronaldo], he can’t compete at this level anymore. Despite his fitness, drive, and determination, he struggles to free himself for a shot or make the necessary movements for headers. He can’t get past defenders like he used to,” he added.
Ronaldo’s former teammate at Manchester United, Roy Keane, suggested that the seasoned striker should take a break from international football and reassess his situation closer to the World Cup 2026.
“He [Cristiano Ronaldo] should take a break and step away from international football. If he continues to perform at club level, then he should consider the World Cup when the time comes. When your main goal scorers are not performing at their best, it’s like playing with ten men at the highest level. His movement is still impressive – it was brilliant against France,” noted Keane.
