Former Liverpool and Fulham defender John Arne Riise has urged Cristiano Ronaldo to retire from international football, insisting the Portugal captain is no longer good enough to play at the highest level.
Riise’s comments follow Portugal’s exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the Norwegian also criticising former head coach Roberto Martínez for his handling of the veteran forward.
Speaking in an interview, Riise said: “I know the Portugal coach loves Ronaldo, but I think the whole Ronaldo situation at this World Cup was quite sad.”
He added: “At one point he wasn’t scoring, then he says he’s back after scoring a couple of goals, and then he disappears again.”
Riise believes Martínez failed to put the team’s interests first.
“I don’t think Roberto Martínez managed the situation the right way. He should have shown a stronger hand and prioritised the team over the individual player,” he said.
Looking ahead to Euro 2028, the former Norway international said Ronaldo should step aside for younger players.
“I don’t think Ronaldo will be ready for the Euros, nor do I think he’s currently good enough to play for Portugal at that level.”
Riise continued: “He should call it a day internationally and hand over the opportunity to the younger players.”
He also questioned Ronaldo’s suitability for the demands of modern football.
“Modern football is incredibly demanding physically; you need all 11 players running and fighting for the team, unless you are Messi.”
“Ronaldo doesn’t do that anymore, and I think his inclusion weakens the Portuguese team rather than helping it,” Riise added.
Portugal’s World Cup campaign ended with a 1-0 round-of-16 defeat to Spain, after which Ronaldo admitted he was disappointed but would not rush into making a decision about his international future.
The Al-Nassr forward said: “I’m sad to be leaving the World Cup like this. I gave it my all. I did my best.”
He added: “It was my last World Cup, yes, but I’ll now have time to reflect and be with my family.
“I won’t be making any rash decisions.
“I don’t decide anything in the heat of the moment.
“Now is not important whether I will continue.”
Despite the criticism, new Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has indicated that he intends to keep Ronaldo involved as the national team begins preparations for the UEFA Nations League and Euro 2028.
