“I don’t think he’s got it in him” - Gary Neville makes bold claim on 'overbearing' Cristiano Ronaldo after Portugal's Euro 2024 exit
Gary Neville believes Cristiano Ronaldo no longer has what it takes to play international football after Portugal's Euro 2024 elimination. The pundit claimed that Ronaldo's presence was a bane for Roberto Martinez's side.
Portugal were knocked out by France in the quarterfinals last weekend, losing 3-5 on penalties. While Ronaldo converted his spot-kick in the shootout, he struggled to have a meaningful impact on the game.
Despite playing the entire 120 minutes, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner managed only three shots in total and registered just three touches in the opposition box.
Cristiano Ronaldo has been criticized for his performances at the Euro 2024, as he failed to score a goal for Portugal. Many pundits have questioned whether the 39-year-old should've started all their matches.
Neville believes his former Manchester United teammate's tenacious and rather overbearing nature may have caused Portugal's exit from the Euro 2024. He said on The Overlap (via the Daily Mail):
"This dynamic of unbelievable desire, self-fight, determination – all those things that you love about him [Cristiano Ronaldo] – how overbearing is it for the rest of the players and the manager and the country?"
"There's two things – one, the player sometimes knows when to let it go, but there are some players who don't and need telling but there is an element of who tells him [Cristiano Ronaldo]."
"'I don't think he's got it in him. At the end of the day, I'm not saying that if they [Portugal] had played with Diogo Jota they would have done better at this tournament or not do better, but that overbearing nature of his presence is huge – it was at [Manchester] United at the end."
Cristiano Ronaldo only managed to find the back of the net for Portugal during the penalty shootouts against Slovenia and France.
Cristiano Ronaldo issues statement on social media after Portugal's Euro 2024 exit
Portugal and France saw their Euro 2024 quarterfinal clash end in a goalless draw after 120 minutes of action and proceed to penalties. Ousmane Dembele stepped up to the spot for the first penalty and fired it home for Les Bleus before Ronaldo converted his spot-kick.
While the other takers managed to find the back of the net, Joao Felix's strike hit the post, and the Atletico Madrid forward's miss led to Portugal's elimination from the tournament.
After the game, Ronaldo took to social media to write a message to his fans and express gratitude for their support.
The Real Madrid legend wrote on Instagram:
"We wanted more. We deserved more. For us. For each and every one of you. By by Portugal. We are grateful for all that you have given us and all that we have accomplished so far. On and off the field, I'm sure this legacy will be honored and continue to be built. Together."