France legend, Frank Leboeuf has said that Cristiano Ronaldo deserves a farewell match comparable to Lionel Messi’s forthcoming fixture.
He argued that such an illustrious career with the national team should not end abruptly.
Speaking on ESPN FC, Leboeuf said Ronaldo’s dissatisfaction following his lack of playing time during the UEFA Nations League victory over Norway is understandable.
“I observed that Ronaldo appeared somewhat discontented regarding his non-participation towards the conclusion of the Norway match and that he experienced frustration. I considered this entirely understandable.
“He remains like any other player; when positioned on the bench, one desires active involvement and may reasonably get frustrated and irritated after the match.
“This constitutes a normal reaction, and I maintain that this perspective is justified. Should this represent the sole concern, then the matter is resolved,” he said.
Leboeuf emphasized that an abrupt end to Ronaldo’s international career would be inappropriate. He advocated for Portugal to arrange a farewell match, allowing him to determine the circumstances of his departure.
He said, “It’s not possible that we can see an ending like this. That cannot be an ending for a player like him. A player like him has to decide himself, ‘Okay, maybe it’s the end of it. I say goodbye, thank you, farewell.’ And then you do, like maybe they will do for Messi.
“A last game, you know, a tribute for him because he deserves that. That’s the only ending you want to see. A celebration. Not an escape. And that’s very sad. If that is what it is, if everybody is assuming or thinking of it, it’s sad. I don’t want to believe that.”
Cristiano Ronaldo has withdrawn from the national team camp following a disagreement with newly appointed coach, Jorge Jesus.
Portugal: ‘So sad it can end this way’ – France legend Leboeuf on Cristiano Ronaldo’s career