On Saturday, Portugal said goodbye to Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident with his brother André Silva. In Gondomar, near Porto, the funeral brought together many personalities from Lusitanian football. Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, João Félix… all were there. Ruben Neves has even made the trip from the United States where he competes in the Club World Cup.
But not Cristiano Ronaldo. And it doesn't happen.
An absence that makes noise
The captain of the selection had however reacted on social networks as soon as the death was announced. Message of emotion, condolences to loved ones, everything was there. But when you had to move, no one. According to
The MirrorCR7 would have preferred to stay on his yacht in the Balearic to avoid the media circus.
The argument does not convince Antonio Ribeiro Cristovao, recognized Portuguese journalist:
“It is inexplicable. As a captain, he had a duty to be present. »» In the stands and on the networks, criticisms are fused. How can the selection leader zap such a moment?
Cristiano Ronaldo absent, indignant Portugal
When acts do not follow the words
A few days ago, Ronaldo wrote on Instagram: “It makes no sense. To your family and your children, I send my condolences and wish them all the strength of the world. »» Beautiful words, but that sound hollow today. His teammates made the trip. Some from far away.
The absence of the 40 -year -old star disappoints all the more since she contrasts with the image he cultivates. Ronaldo likes to recall that he is an example, a leader. But on Saturday, he missed an important meeting. The Portuguese did not miss it.
Cristiano Ronaldo, a false step that stains
Cristiano remains an exceptional champion, nobody disputes him. But being an icon is also knowing how to be there in difficult times. Not just behind a screen. This absence hurts him in Portuguese public opinion, used to seeing him in all the great moments of national football.
A human error, that is. But which recalls that the perfect image sometimes has flaws.
