Cristiano Ronaldo makes feelings clear on Wayne Rooney after major snub from former Man Utd teammate

A year later, Ronaldo signed for Real Madrid, where he became a club legend before moving to Juventus and then back to Manchester United in 2021.

During his return, the six-time Ballon d'Or winner refused Erik ten Hag's request to come off the bench in the late stages of certain matches.

As a pundit, Rooney heavily criticised his former teammate and later also confirmed that he believes Messi is the greatest player of all time.

Three years ago, after his Manchester United exit, Ronaldo said: “I don’t know why he criticises me so badly… probably because he finished his career and I’m still playing at a high level.

“I’m not going to say that I’m looking better than him. Which is true…

“They [Rooney and Gary Neville] are not my friends, they are colleagues.”

When asked about his opinion on Rooney's comments in an interview with Piers Morgan, Ronaldo said: "No problem.

"I don’t agree. I don’t want to be humble."

Ronaldo now plays for the Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, with his contract set to run until 2027.

He continues to serve as Portugal's team captain leading up to the 2026 World Cup.

Responding to the initial comments from the Portuguese star, Rooney previously said: “I have the greatest respect for Cristiano and, when people argue he is the greatest, I know where they are coming from and respect that opinion.

"But, for me, Messi is just different.

"I played against him several times and it’s his ability to take and hold the ball, to control games, run at players, pass and score and be the difference.

"There is just such joy watching his games. He has what Diego Maradona had in terms of the ability to go past players and execute the full range of skills — pass, shoot, cross — and everything in terms of vision."

Ronaldo made history, becoming the first player ever to score in five different FIFA World Cups.

The Portuguese icon recently surpassed an astonishing 850 career goals, setting a new global record in football.

Over his illustrious career, Ronaldo has claimed five UEFA Champions League titles, including the one alongside Rooney in 2008.