Syria’s all-time leading star Omar Al Somah has said Portugal can perform better without Cristiano Ronaldo, as scrutiny grows around the captain’s relationship with manager Jorge Jesus.
The former Al Ahli striker’s comments came during a turbulent international break for Portugal, after Jesus left Ronaldo out of the side against Norway. The situation intensified when the manager subsequently announced that the forward would not start the team’s next match.
Ronaldo then left the Portugal camp and returned to Saudi Arabia, where he was due to resume training with Al Nassr. His departure prompted widespread debate over the relationship between the player and Jesus, with the incident raising further questions about Ronaldo’s role in the national team.
Speaking to beIN Sports, Al Somah acknowledged Ronaldo’s quality but argued that the 40-year-old no longer has the same influence he once did.
“There is no doubt about Cristiano Ronaldo’s ability, but he is no longer the player he was before,” Al Somah said. “He is not capable at either the technical or physical level, and Portugal are currently better without him.”
The Syrian forward also offered his assessment of how Portugal’s players interact with Ronaldo during matches, suggesting that some are reluctant to build attacks through him.
“Even the players do not want to play towards him,” Al Somah said. “I see some players changing their positions and the direction in which they deliver the ball, away from Ronaldo.”
The remarks have added to the debate over whether Ronaldo can continue to provide Portugal with the same contribution despite his advancing age and changing responsibilities on the pitch.
Ronaldo has an exceptional record with Portugal and remains one of the most significant players in the country’s history. However, the latest dispute with Jesus has focused attention on his current status within the squad and on how the team should use him.
The disagreement reached a decisive point during the recent international gathering, with Ronaldo’s decision to leave camp bringing the issue into sharper focus. He has since returned to Riyadh to prepare for his return to Al Nassr duties.
Al Somah’s assessment represents a direct criticism of Ronaldo’s present role in the Portugal team. It also reflects the wider uncertainty surrounding the captain’s international future after the latest confrontation with Jesus, with his ability to maintain his former level of influence now under increased discussion.
