Portugal: ‘So sad it can end this way’ – France legend Leboeuf on Cristiano Ronaldo’s career

France legend Frank Leboeuf expressed his disappointment over Cristiano Ronaldo's sudden departure from the Portugal national team. Speaking to ESPN FC, Leboeuf lamented that Ronaldo's career should not end so abruptly, suggesting that the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star deserves a farewell match akin to Lionel Messi's impending opportunity.

Leboeuf acknowledged Ronaldo's understandable frustration following his limited playing time during Portugal's UEFA Nations League victory over Norway. The former French midfielder stressed that such reactions to bench time are normal for any player, and if this is Ronaldo's sole concern, then the matter can be resolved. However, Leboeuf firmly opposed an abrupt conclusion to Ronaldo's international career, advocating for Portugal to organize a farewell match that grants him the final say on his departure.

He said, "It’s not possible that we can see an ending like this. That cannot be an ending for a player like him. A player like him has to decide himself, ‘Okay, maybe it’s the end of it. I say goodbye, thank you, farewell.’ And then you do, like maybe they will do for Messi." In conclusion, Leboeuf expressed his sadness over the potential end to Ronaldo's illustrious career, calling for a celebration instead of an exit.

He said, "If that is what it is, if everybody is assuming or thinking of it, it’s sad. I don’t want to believe that."