Cristiano Ronaldo was “wasted” by Portugal at the 2022 World Cup and became the victim of a “political ban,” according to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Ronaldo, 37, endured a torrid time in Qatar as Portugal crashed out to Morocco in the quarterfinals.
He started both of his team’s knockout-stage matches on the bench after being dropped by manager Fernando Santos, and played just 40 minutes of the defeat to Morocco.
The Portugal captain later acknowledged that his dream of winning the World Cup was over after suffering more disappointment – despite becoming the first player ever to score at five editions of the tournament.
Compounding matters, Ronaldo’s generational rival Lionel Messi went on to lead his country to their first World Cup success in 36 years.
According to Erdogan, who is a well-known football fan and former semi-professional, Ronaldo was mistreated by his team.
“They have wasted Ronaldo.
You’ve reached your free article limit
Subscribe to enjoy unlimited access to trusted journalism. Cancel anytime.
Subscribe nowNeed help? molokom@insidepolitic.co.za
