Antonio Conte has strongly criticized Jorge Jesus over his handling of Cristiano Ronaldo, questioning the Portuguese manager’s decision to call up the five-time Ballon d’Or winner only to leave him on the bench.
“Look, I think it’s very simple. This is about respect and, above all, clarity and honesty.
You call up a world-class player, an absolute champion like Cristiano. You bring him into training, take him to the stadium, and then leave him on the bench as if he were just another player?
No.
If he doesn’t fit into your plans, if he doesn’t suit your tactical system, then leave him out of the squad altogether. You cannot mislead the media and the public like that.
Jorge Jesus knew Cristiano was 41 years old even before he called him up. Nobody is stupid. Everyone knows he cannot run for 90 minutes like a young player.
But if you select him, it’s because you need his personality, his quality and his mentality.
And we also need to be honest about how Jorge got to this position.
He benefited from Cristiano. He used Ronaldo’s name, his presence and his global fame to gain international recognition and ultimately secure the job as Portugal’s national team coach.
You benefit from a giant and then, once you have gained the power and position you wanted, you turn your back on him?
No.
That is what I don’t respect.
And now I’m reading that they want another meeting?
Once again, they sit around a table and say, ‘Please, Cristiano, don’t retire. Stay with us,’ making the same promises, only to find themselves in the same chaotic situation two months later?
It’s ridiculous. It’s not serious.
Jorge needs to understand one very important thing: you may win a small battle of egos today, but tomorrow you could lose the respect of the entire dressing room.
Cristiano has given his life and his blood to Portugal.
Either you handle the situation with clear communication and the utmost respect, or you don’t call him