Ronaldo Sends Strong Signal After Felipe Melo’s Brutal Criticism Of Portugal Stars

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has seemingly shown support for former Brazil international Felipe Melo after the retired midfielder criticised the way Ronaldo was treated during his latest departure from the national team camp.

Ronaldo, 41, reportedly left Portugal’s camp earlier in the week after becoming frustrated by being left on the bench during the team’s 2-1 victory over Norway on Sunday. The veteran forward subsequently requested a meeting with head coach Jorge Jesus before leaving the squad, raising fresh questions about his international future.

He was then absent as Portugal recorded a 4-2 Nations League victory over Denmark on Thursday, with his departure continuing to generate discussion within the national team setup.

Following the match, Melo publicly criticised the treatment Ronaldo received from his Portugal teammates and compared it with the level of respect shown to Lionel Messi by opponents during the Argentine captain’s international career.

Melo argued that Ronaldo had not received the level of respect he deserved, insisting that no player had reached the Portuguese forward’s level of achievement.

“I see a grotesque difference in the players’ treatment of Cristiano Ronaldo in relation to Argentina players with Messi,” Melo said, according to reports.

He added that opponents appeared to show Ronaldo greater respect than some of his teammates and described the circumstances surrounding the player’s departure as unacceptable.

Melo’s remarks later appeared in a video shared on Instagram, with reports claiming that Ronaldo was among those who liked the post. The apparent reaction has been interpreted as an indication that the Portugal captain agreed with Melo’s assessment, although Ronaldo has not publicly commented on the matter.

Ronaldo had earlier indicated that he would eventually disclose the reasons behind his decision to leave the national team camp, promising to reveal what he described as “the truth” to the Portuguese public.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said his decision followed discussions with the Portuguese Football Federation president and came after the national team coach’s press conference.

He also wished Portugal and his teammates success, stressing that he had always remained committed to the national team.

Ronaldo’s situation has continued to attract attention, particularly as Portugal prepares for upcoming international fixtures and speculation grows over his future with the national side.

The forward also appeared to receive support from former Manchester United striker Rasmus Højlund, who scored for Denmark in the Nations League encounter and celebrated with Ronaldo’s trademark “Siu” celebration before reportedly exchanging words with Jesus after the match.