Cristiano Ronaldo has suggested Wayne Rooney s criticism of his behaviour at Manchester United is rooted in jealousy.
Ronaldo has been the subject of a great deal of scrutiny this season, having pushed for a move away from United ahead of the August kick-off.
After staying at Old Trafford, the United great fell out of favour under new manager Erik ten Hag and was widely criticised for refusing to appear as a substitute against Tottenham.
Ronaldo stormed down the tunnel during that match and was subsequently suspended for United s next game.
Ten Hag has reintegrated Ronaldo, but his role remains the subject of debate, with former strike partner Rooney weighing in this week.
While some of Ronaldo s other team-mates have defended him, Rooney said the 37-year-old s behaviour was not acceptable and an unwanted distraction .
Now, in a wide-ranging interview with Piers Morgan Uncensored, Ronaldo has responded.
I don t know why he criticises me so badly, he said in an interview that will be broadcast in full next week.
Probably because he finished his career and I m still playing at a high level.
Back on track, with the same commitment and dedication as always!
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano)
I m not going to say that I m looking better than him – which is true
Ronaldo joined United for the first time in 2003, a year before Rooney was signed from Everton, and the pair won the 2007-08 Champions League together.
While Ronaldo will be heading to the World Cup with Portugal, Rooney – England s record goalscorer – is preparing for his first full season in charge of MLS side D.C. United.
As well as poking fun at Rooney, Ronaldo used his interview as a platform to discuss how he has been betrayed by United, adding he does not respect Ten Hag.
