Cristiano Ronaldo has publicly addressed his dynamic with former Manchester United teammate Wayne Rooney while explaining his controversial absence from Diogo Jota’s funeral.

Ronaldo Responds to Rooney’s Comments

During the second installment of his interview with Piers Morgan, Ronaldo reacted to Rooney’s recent comparison between him and Lionel Messi. Rooney had acknowledged Ronaldo as “a genius” but placed Messi higher in his personal ranking.

Ronaldo dismissed any tension, stating: “Whatever he says doesn’t matter. I respect his opinion completely. It’s his freedom to express himself.” The Al-Nassr captain emphasized there were no hard feelings between the former teammates.

The Nature of Their Relationship

Ronaldo clarified that while they shared mutual respect during their Manchester United days, their bond never developed into close friendship. “We had a good professional relationship when playing together. But it wasn’t the type where I’d invite him for meals,” Ronaldo explained.

“The word ‘friend’ carries significant weight for me. I don’t casually apply it to fellow players,” he continued. “Our connection centered on football. I respect Rooney immensely for his contributions at United. If we meet, I’ll greet him warmly.”

Funeral Absence Explained

Ronaldo also defended his decision to skip the funeral of Portugal international Diogo Jota, who tragically died in a July car accident. “Criticism doesn’t bother me when my conscience is clear,” Ronaldo stated.

He offered two reasons for his absence: “Firstly, I haven’t visited cemeteries since my father’s passing. Secondly, my presence inevitably creates a media circus. I refused to divert attention from Diogo’s memorial.”

The football icon concluded: “People may criticize, but I stand by my decision. The focus should remain on honoring Diogo, not on my attendance.”