Rooney Reveals Affection for Ronaldo Despite Messi Preference Amid Al Nassr Strike Reports
Despite ongoing speculation surrounding a reported strike at Al Nassr, former Manchester United teammate Wayne Rooney has publicly affirmed his respect and admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, clarifying long-held perceptions about their relationship. The revelations come as Ronaldo, 39, reportedly feels he deserves more recognition for his impact on the growing popularity of Saudi Arabian football.
On Monday, February 2, reports surfaced alleging that the Portuguese forward had initiated a strike stemming from concerns over the management of Al Nassr by the Public Investment Fund (PIF). The PIF also controls Al Hilal – currently leading the Saudi Pro League and bolstered by the recent signing of Karim Benzema – as well as Al Ittihad, Al Ahli, and Newcastle United. Al Nassr currently sits one point behind Al Hilal after 19 games, with Ronaldo yet to secure a league title during his time in the Middle East.
According to Portuguese outlet Record, Ronaldo believes his contributions have significantly elevated the profile of Saudi football and warrant greater respect. Even with Ronaldo absent from the squad, Al Nassr secured a 1-0 victory over Al-Riyadh on February 2, thanks to a goal from Sadio Mané.
However, the narrative extends beyond recent on-field events, delving into the complex history between Rooney and Ronaldo. The pair famously clashed during the 2006 FIFA World Cup quarter-final between England and Portugal, a match marred by Rooney’s red card for a stamp on Ricardo Carvalho. Ronaldo’s subsequent gesture – appearing to wink at the Portuguese bench – ignited fury from Rooney and English fans alike.
Their professional paths converged again at Manchester United until Ronaldo’s departure for Real Madrid in 2009. But what is Rooney’s true assessment of his former colleague?
Speaking in September 2025 on the ‘Rio Ferdinand Presents’ show, Rooney unequivocally stated he harbors no animosity towards Ronaldo. “People think I hate him [Ronaldo],” Rooney said. “I love him. I think he’s an absolute genius, and what he’s doing is incredible.”
Rooney emphasized the depth of their connection, stating, “I love Cristiano and playing with him. I don’t think people realise, actually, how close me and him were.” He clarified that his previous statements favoring Lionel Messi over Ronaldo have been misinterpreted as dislike.
“I think just because I’ve said that I think Messi is better than Ronaldo, people think I don’t like Cristiano,” Rooney explained. “I absolutely love Messi, love watching him play, and that was the only reason because I think Messi had a little bit more in terms of how he played and taking players on and whatever.” He further acknowledged Ronaldo’s competitive spirit, adding, “Ronaldo’s a killer and people think because I’ve said Messi is better than Ronaldo, like I don’t like him or speak down on him.”
Rooney’s comments offer a nuanced perspective on a relationship often portrayed as adversarial, revealing a genuine respect and affection that transcends on-field rivalries and differing opinions on footballing greatness.
