Ex-France Player: Ronaldo Was Isolated in Portugal's World Cup Exit

Cristiano Ronaldo's dream of winning the World Cup has ended after Portugal's 0-1 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16, marking another tournament conclusion with disappointment for the star.

Reflecting on Ronaldo's struggles during the tournament, former French national player Youri Djorkaeff suggested that the Portuguese captain appeared isolated within his team. Djorkaeff shared his views in an interview with "RMC," expressing his belief that the team dynamics did not favor Ronaldo.

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I think if the team brings Cristiano Ronaldo, the whole team has to fight for him, but the situation is the complete opposite.

"I think if the team brings Cristiano Ronaldo, the whole team has to fight for him, but the situation is the complete opposite," Djorkaeff stated. He elaborated that while he isn't privy to the team's inner workings, he senses Ronaldo wasn't receiving adequate support, citing a lack of effective passes and optimal positioning on the field.

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I think it's a shame, either don't bring him, or don't let him play, but since you let him play, you have to make sure the team fights for Cristiano Ronaldo.

Djorkaeff criticized the team's approach, arguing that if Ronaldo is included in the squad, the team's strategy should be built around him. He also pointed out that Ronaldo has played consistently in the same style for decades, questioning what the team expected from him. The former player felt it was regrettable that Ronaldo was not better integrated, suggesting either not selecting him or ensuring the team played to his strengths if he was on the field.

Furthermore, Djorkaeff addressed criticism directed at Ronaldo, noting that while the Portuguese team is talented, he dislikes how players seem to shift blame onto Ronaldo. He emphasized that players like Vitinha and Bruno Fernandes must also take responsibility, rather than attributing all issues to Ronaldo overshadowing the team.

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I think it's a shame, and the worst thing is that everyone is shifting responsibility, throwing the problem to C. Ronaldo. I think Vitinha, or Fernandes, or others also need to take responsibility, and not blame everything on C. Ronaldo, saying that he covers everyone's light.