Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo's feud in full as BBC pundit takes fresh World Cup swipe
Need to knowWayne Rooney has put fans on alert after appearing to aim a jibe at former Manchester United team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo following Portugal's World Cup exitWayne Rooney appeared to suggest Portugal's players don't look like they enjoy playing with Cristiano Ronaldo following the ir World Cup exit(Image: FIFA via Getty Images)All you need to know about Rooney and Ronaldo's history:Shared history: Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo forged a formidable attacking partnership at Manchester United, winning numerous trophies together under Sir Alex Ferguson. Despite their incredible chemistry on the pitch, their relationship has occasionally been tested by public disagreements and high-stakes international clashes.Red card rivalry: The first major flashpoint between the two occurred during the 2006 World Cup, when Ronaldo famously advocated for Rooney’s dismissal after a foul. Ronaldo was caught winking at the Portuguese bench after Rooney was shown a red card, sparking widespread fury from the English press and fans.Rooney critiques: Although they reconciled and enjoyed immense success at club level afterward, subtle tensions have surfaced since their respective departures from Old Trafford. Rooney has periodically offered blunt assessments of his former team-mate's career choices and on-field behaviour.World Cup 2026 scrutiny: The dynamic between the two re-emerged in the media following Portugal's heartbreaking exit from the 2026 World Cup at the hands of Spain. Rooney heavily criticised Portugal's midfield, particularly Bruno Fernandes, for failing to utilise the 41-year-old striker's strengths inside the penalty area.Messi vs Ronaldo comparison: However, Rooney also appeared to hint at criticism of Ronaldo in comparison to long-time rival Lionel Messi and said on the BBC: "You always put Ronaldo and Messi together because they are two of the best players the game has ever seen but the Argentinian lads seem like they’re all there for Messi. They’re all behind him. Messi has obviously been fantastic at this World Cup. I don’t get that vibe from the Portuguese players."Backhanded compliment: Rooney also pointed out that while Ronaldo's mobility has naturally waned, he remains a massive threat when provided with proper service in the box. He expressed frustration that the Portuguese players repeatedly opted to pass the ball around rather than delivering crosses to their captain.Old Trafford return: During Ronaldo's tumultuous second stint at Manchester United, Rooney publicly criticised his conduct as detrimental to the squad. Rooney bluntly said Ronaldo's actions at the start of that season were simply unacceptable for a club of United's stature.Playful jibe: In a more lighthearted but telling moment in 2025, Rooney risked drawing Ronaldo's ire by jokingly mistaking him for their former team-mate Carlos Tevez in a video. The former England captain laughingly acknowledged that the fiercely proud Portuguese star would likely be fuming at the comparison.Tough love: Ultimately, the complex relationship between Rooney and Ronaldo remains a fascinating blend of immense mutual respect and candid, often harsh, public critique. While their shared history is defined by spectacular triumphs, Rooney has never shied away from voicing uncomfortable truths about his iconic former colleague.READ MORE: Cristiano Ronaldo called out for 'waddling like a grandad' as Portugal blame made clearEngland's 2026 World Cup kitsThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn moreVarious PricesKitbagBuy Now on KitbagEngland and Nike have launched the new home, away and goalkeeper kits to be worn at this summer's FIFA World Cup. You can get free delivery on all orders with the code DEAL.
