Cristiano Ronaldo is being urged by Portugal supporters to be benched for their crucial UEFA Nations League match against Spain.
Due to recent underwhelming performances, Ronaldo has drawn criticism from the Portuguese media and national team fans.
The 37-year-old took the field at the start of Portugal’s 4-0 victory over the Czech Republic, where he conceded a penalty and suffered a serious facial injury that left him with a black eye.
Now, the Portuguese newspaper A Bola has devoted their back page to the discussion surrounding the retirement of Cristiano Ronaldo, using the headline “Less Ronaldo, more Portugal.”
According to the report, despite being the captain and having 117 goals in 190 international appearances, he ought to sit this season due to a lack of playing time and goals.
They advise Bruno Fernandes, a teammate from Manchester United, to assume the responsibility of serving as the team’s captain.
The outlet also conducted a poll, with the results showing that 57% of supporters believe Ronaldo shouldn’t start the match against Spain.
Also Read: Available Jobs in Sports Career For Non-Athletes
This latest disappointment follows his unsuccessful attempt to leave Old Trafford in the summer and his subsequent use primarily as a substitute for Erik ten Hag.
Portugal must avoid losing in order for Spain to finish first in the group and advance to the Nations League semifinals.
However, Ronaldo’s position in Portugal’s starting lineup for the World Cup is not guaranteed due to pressure from the media and supporters.
Though he has stated his desire to participate in Euro 2024, it is believed that this could be his final major competition.
Portugal is in a World Cup group with South Korea, Ghana, and Uruguay.
