Al-Nassr forward Cristiano Ronaldo in action.
Photo : AP
Star footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has left European football, but he still stays in the conversation of former European players and football pundits. Former World Cup and Euro winner, Frank Leboeuf has sparked a heated discussion by suggesting that Portugal‘s chances of winning Euro 2024 could hinge on the controversial choice to leave Cristiano Ronaldo out of their squad. His provocative opinion was shared in a BetVictor interview, stirring up strong reactions among soccer fans and pundits alike.
“For me, Portugal are actually one of the contenders for this summer’s European Championships. I actually think they can win the Euros, but only if Cristiano Ronaldo doesn’t play. You cannot take away anything that Ronaldo has done for football just because he has gone to retire in the Saudi League. I want to thank him for taking the sport to another level, but there is an end for everyone. He has every right to play in Saudi Arabia, although I’m not sure he needed even more money!,” said Frank Leboeuf.
Ronaldo, who made his debut for Portugal in 2003, became a key figure for the team in 2006 and has not looked back since then. It was under his leadership that Portugal tasted its first ever silverware in 2016, beating a solid France side in the final of the Euro.
As the Euro 2024 tournament gets closer, people are talking a lot about whether Cristiano Ronaldo should be part of Portugal’s team. Frank Leboeuf’s idea has made many people talk about the need for new players and how even great players like Ronaldo can’t play forever. As of now, the 39-year-old will lead a young talented team to Germany and will try to add a second Euro title to his trophy cabinet after missing out on the 2022 World Cup.
Ultimately, Portugal’s team boss, Roberto Martinez, will decide if Ronaldo plays. This choice is a big deal for Portugal’s soccer team. It’s about respecting what Ronaldo has done in the past but also about looking ahead and giving new players a chance. Everyone is waiting to see what will happen with Portugal’s team, whether Ronaldo will be there to lead them or if it’s time for new stars to shine.