Cristiano Ronaldo’s Ego Is a Big Weakness for Portugal, Claims Gary Lineker Amid Free-Kick Dilemma

Portugal once again reached the quarterfinals of Euro 2024. The 2016 champions entered the tournament with immense support from fans as it could potentially be the last one for Cristiano Ronaldo. However, the journey until now has been bittersweet for the Portuguese captain considering his own performances. Ronaldo missed a penalty against Slovenia in the last game, but former English captain Gary Lineker feels Portugal has a different issue in the star’s ego. Facing their foes from 2016 next, can Roberto Martinez’s team overcome the issue against France?

Speaking on the Rest is Football Podcast, Gary Lineker felt that Ronaldo’s ego in taking freekicks is holding Portugal back. “Bruno Fernandes you know is a better free kick taker and more varied free taker than Ronaldo. So that’s why I’m saying that whilst it’s a massive strength, your greatest strengths are often your weaknesses,” replied Lineker when asked by Micah Richards about how uneasy it is for others to take freekicks in the presence of the highest goalscorer in the world.

Meanwhile, the former English captain appreciated Ronaldo’s ability in the opponent’s box. However, he concluded the point by saying, “He is unbelievably good at that but it’s more the ego side of him that could be ultimately the weakness for probably himself Portugal and man and um Roberto,” stating that other players could be taking the set pieces in front of the goal.

Lineker also brought up Ronaldo’s poor record in international tournaments. The Al Nassr captain has scored just one goal through freekicks from 60 direct shots in all major international tournaments. This came against Spain in the 2018 World Cup but more importantly, he missed quite a few in the game against Slovenia grabbing the attention of pundits. But the 5-time Ballon d’Or winner could still be a threat say former players.

Few positives for Cristiano Ronaldo amid his decline

Cristiano Ronaldo proved his mettle even recently after leading Portugal through the Euro qualifiers undefeated. In addition, Lineker feels Ronaldo’s movement is still a deadly weapon for him.

He also said, “I still think he’s a massive threat in the box. His movements are brilliant. He can’t quite climb as high as he used to do but he still might do something.” Ronaldo still has 20 attempts in this tournament which is a testament to his movements.

However, Alan Shearer feels that the 39-year-old hasn’t been like before with less speed and sharpness. Ronaldo despite having 20 shots has not opened his account yet which is worrying the fans. But can he change the tides by netting against France in a crucial clash? Let us know in the comments.