Mansion Sports – Zinedine Zidane has firmly defended Cristiano Ronaldo after the forward came under intense media scrutiny following his sudden departure from Portugal national team duty.

Recalling the historic successes they achieved together at Santiago Bernabeu, the manager dismissed suggestions that Ronaldo’s career is ending on a sour note, while also sharing his own transition into international management.

France Manager Defends His Former Forward

The France national team manager firmly rejected widespread public claims that the iconic forward is experiencing a disappointing end to his international career.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the Nations League match against Belgium, Zidane played down the drama surrounding the forward’s sudden departure from Portugal’s training camp in Copenhagen following a dispute with Jorge Jesus.

After leading Los Blancos to historic dominance in European competition between 2016 and 2018, the manager drew on the legacy of their shared success to once again emphasize his enduring respect for his former player.

Legendary Manager Praises Outstanding Achievements

Dismissing the wave of harsh criticism directed at the forward, Zidane said at his press conference: "No, I think he should be congratulated for his extraordinary career. What he has done is truly extraordinary."

The French manager also wanted to emphasize his immense gratitude for the player’s important contributions during their time working together, adding:

"I was lucky to have him with me and he made me win incredible things, so hats off to Cristiano.

"I will always have great respect for him, as I do for all players, but especially those who spent so much time with me, and particularly Cristiano, who made us win so many things."

Adapting to the Rhythm of International Football

While his former player deals with issues off the pitch, Zidane is enjoying a productive start to his role in the Les Bleus dugout, securing away victories over Turkey and Belgium as well as a home draw against Italy in Paris.

Comparing the relentless intensity of club football with the international arena, he explained at his press conference: "Maybe the difference is that at a club, everything never stops; every day there is always something going on, and it takes up a lot of your attention."

"I enjoy doing that, and now I have another side of the job and I will try to do it this way, which will be a little different. But in any case, the desire to work well with my team remains the same."

Chasing Top Spot Amid the Distractions

Zidane’s immediate priority is to extend France’s unbeaten record and secure top spot in their UEFA Nations League group.

However, even as Les Bleus continue to progress well under his leadership, the world’s attention remains focused on Ronaldo’s promise to reveal the truth behind his departure from the Portugal national team.

Zidane firmly indicated that, despite the controversy surrounding him, Ronaldo’s career achievements remain worthy of respect.

At the same time, Zidane continues to adapt to his new challenges as France national team manager while attempting to guide Les Bleus toward further success.