Ricardo Quaresma, a former teammate, commented on the controversy surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo, stating, "Sometimes, we have to take what we have caused." His remarks came during an interview with SIC Caras on 13/10.

Quaresma, a former Portugal winger, played alongside Ronaldo on the national team from 2003 to 2018. He exercised caution in his comments, citing good relationships with both the Al Nassr forward, coach Jorge Jesus, and the President of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF). The 43-year-old stated, "Of course, only those involved should speak up. They were there and know what they discussed."

Ricardo Quaresma (left) celebrates the opening goal with Cristiano Ronaldo during Portugal's match against Iran in Group B of the 2018 World Cup at Mordovia Arena, Saransk, Russia, on 25/6/2018. Photo: AFP

Quaresma believes that all parties involved are mature enough to resolve their disagreements privately. He suggested the matter should be handled internally by the team, rather than becoming a subject of media debate.

Quaresma declined to offer advice to Ronaldo or other involved parties, emphasizing that this situation was beyond his intervention. He reiterated that those directly involved possess a clearer understanding of the events.

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) initiated disciplinary proceedings against Ronaldo after the forward departed the national team's training camp in Copenhagen on 30/9. This occurred during preparations for a Nations League match, following a press conference by coach Jorge Jesus, and garnered significant Portuguese and international media attention.

An FPF announcement confirmed that its disciplinary body applied a non-automatic preventive suspension to Ronaldo. The case was transferred to the federation's Disciplinary Investigation Committee on 10/10, with an urgent investigation underway. This measure is temporary, pending a full review, and does not constitute a final penalty.

Quaresma also expressed his growing disinterest in football due to the prevalence of off-field controversies. The former Barca midfielder added, "Football has changed so much that I no longer have enough patience to watch a match. The sport has lost its inherent joy and appeal. Nowadays, people discuss controversies more than the actual game."

Known for his signature "trivela" shots, Quaresma still participates in legend matches but no longer follows football regularly. He has often defended Ronaldo in the media, previously calling critics of the Portuguese superstar uninformed.

By Hoang An (via SIC)