Ronaldo returned to Portugal duty during the previous international break and featured under newly appointed head coach Jorge Jesus. He played in Portugal’s 1-0 victory over Wales in the UEFA Nations League before starting on the bench in their next match, a 2-1 away win against Norway.
The 41-year-old subsequently left the camp after Jesus informed him that he would also be a substitute for Portugal’s upcoming fixture against Denmark.
Dugarry criticised Ronaldo’s decision during an appearance on RMC Sport, saying the incident showed a lack of respect for his teammates and country.
“It tired me. It’s terrible, having so little respect for your compatriots, your nation. It’s terrible, because that’s really not the image he conveyed,” Dugarry said.
The former France forward added that Ronaldo had previously portrayed himself as a supportive and generous figure but suggested that his attitude had changed in recent months.
“He conveyed the image of a healthy guy, supportive, tall, generous… And there, I have the impression that he has transformed, that his ego is eating away at him over the last few months,” he added.
Dugarry questioned what role Ronaldo could now play with the national team and said his actions could send the wrong message to younger Portuguese players.
“When he could have departed with tremendous honour, it’s finished; it’s been compromised. How can one expect him to return? For what objective? What signal are you conveying to Portuguese youth?” he asked.
Dugarry also argued that Portugal have shown greater effectiveness without Ronaldo and suggested that the veteran forward should consider taking on a mentorship role as the national team prepares for the next generation of players.
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