Sneijder says Portugal disrespected Ronaldo before his international retirement

Wesley Sneijder has said Cristiano Ronaldo 'was disrespected by Portugal' before his international retirement.

Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football this month after 234 caps and 146 goals, each of which are all-time records in men's international football.

The 41-year-old's decision to step down from Portugal duty came after a fallout with head coach Jorge Jesus during the previous international break.

Ronaldo walked out on the Portugal camp, having felt disrespected by Jesus. Having started the Nations League clash against Norway from the bench, Ronaldo was told to warm-up and spent 20 to 30 minutes preparing to come on, but Jesus ultimately decided not to bring him onto the pitch.

The fallout came despite an existing relationship between the pair. Jesus was in charge of Ronaldo's club side, Al-Nassr, during their Saudi Pro League title success in 2025/26.

Former Real Madrid midfielder Sneijder said that treatment was disrespectful from Jesus and backed Ronaldo's decision to leave the camp.

“Cristiano Ronaldo was disrespected by Portugal. Jorge Jesus should never have allowed that moment [Ronaldo warming up only to be sent back to the bench again] to happen.” Sneijder told Ziggo Sport’s Rondo.

“You cannot let something like that happen to a player like Cristiano Ronaldo. He should have sat down with Cristiano before the matches took place and told him: ‘Listen, I actually prefer not to play you.’

“At least be honest. Treat him with honesty and respect.”