Cristiano Ronaldo Breaks Silence: Opens Up On Rooney Bond And Emotional Reason For Missing Jota’s Funeral

Cristiano Ronaldo has spoken candidly about his relationship with former Manchester United teammate Wayne Rooney and addressed the controversy surrounding his absence from the funeral of Portugal forward Diogo Jota.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In the second part of his interview with Piers Morgan, released on November 6, Ronaldo responded to Rooney’s recent comments on who he considers the better player between him and Lionel Messi. Rooney had described Ronaldo as “a genius” and “not that difficult to get along with,” but still ranked Messi higher.

Ronaldo remained composed, emphasizing that he has no issues with Rooney’s opinion. “Whatever he says, it doesn’t matter,” he told Morgan. “I can accept his opinion; it’s his right to express himself.”

Reflecting on their time at Manchester United, Ronaldo characterized their relationship as one built on mutual respect rather than close friendship. “We had a good working relationship on the pitch, but it wasn’t the kind of friendship where I’d invite him over for lunch or dinner,” he said.

He added, “For me, the word ‘friend’ carries a lot of weight. I don’t call someone my friend easily. I’m social, but many of my relationships are rooted in respect, including the one with Rooney.”

Ronaldo also praised Rooney’s contributions to Manchester United, noting their shared successes. “I respect him even more because of what he achieved at the club. Whether he calls me a genius or says Messi is better, it doesn’t change anything. If we meet, I’ll shake his hand and hug him. I’ve never considered him an enemy. I respect everyone.”

Addressing criticism over skipping Jota’s funeral following the tragic deaths of the Liverpool forward and his brother Andre Silva in July, Ronaldo explained his reasoning.

“There are two things,” he said. “People criticize me, but I don’t mind. When your conscience is clear, public opinion doesn’t matter. After my father passed away, I stopped going to cemeteries. Also, you know my reputation—wherever I go, it becomes a circus. I didn’t attend Jota’s funeral because the attention would shift to me, and I didn’t want that. People can criticize all they want, but I feel at peace with my decision.”