Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has criticized Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo for his performance in the country’s 2-0 UEFA Euro 2024 Group F loss to Georgia.
Ronaldo struggled significantly in Germany during Portugal’s Euro 2024 qualifying campaign.
The Al-Nassr forward made five appearances in the tournament but did not score a goal.
However, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid player did manage to provide an assist during the competition.
Obi Mikel spoke on The Obi One Podcast about Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent Euro 2024 campaign for Portugal.
“Even if you are a [Lionel] Messi fan, your respect [has to go to] him. You can’t like them both; everyone has their own opinion.
“I have my opinion on who I think the [greatest of all time] GOAT is. Now, Messi winning the Copa America again with Argentina and leading them to glory [puts him ahead]. Of course, Ronaldo, you could say that [he had a disappointing Euro 2024 campaign],” Obi Mikel said.
“A lot of people criticized Ronaldo about taking [all of the] free-kicks, about trying to do everything [on his own], trying to play every game.
“But I have said it a few times, the only place I criticize him in that tournament is [his decision] to play the game against Georgia.
“He did not need to play that game. You are 39 years old, take a break. Have a rest and refresh for the next game,” he added.
Sonia Orjiako