The latest statement from French football legend Zinedine Zidane about Cristiano Ronaldo is causing a stir in the football world. In a recent interview in Paris, Zidane did not hesitate to speak directly about the Portuguese superstar, whom he had praised in the past. But this time, the Real Madrid legend’s tone was completely different – harsh, straightforward and full of disappointment.

Zidane said:

“He is no longer an inspiration, but a barrier for the younger generation. Ronaldo has achieved everything a player can dream of, but he has held on to the spotlight for too long. Football needs to change, needs room for young people to step up.”

This statement is considered the strongest criticism Zidane has ever made of his former student. During his time leading Real Madrid, Zidane and Ronaldo were a legendary duo – coach and scorer – together bringing home three consecutive Champions League titles. But now, it seems Zidane has changed his view of the 39-year-old superstar.

According to Zidane, Ronaldo’s continued playing in Saudi Arabia and his refusal to retire shows that he is “stubbornly clinging to the past”. He emphasized that:

“A true legend is not only remembered for his goals, but also for the way he knows when to stop. When you take all the limelight, you accidentally blur the opportunities of young people. I think Ronaldo needs to understand that.”

Zidane’s criticism immediately caused a storm on social media. Many fans agreed, saying that Ronaldo is “slowing down the pace of modern football” by trying to maintain his position at the age of nearly 40. One prominent comment on Twitter read: “Zidane is right! We respect Ronaldo, but he should give the field to the new generation — like Bellingham, Mbappé, Haaland… They need the opportunity to create their own era.”

However, many people also sided with CR7. They thought Zidane was being too harsh, because Ronaldo still maintained an amazing form despite his age. In the most recent season at Al Nassr, Ronaldo still scored dozens of goals and led the scoring list in the Saudi Pro League. One fan responded: “He still scores, still contributes, still trains like a warrior. Why should he retire when he still has the ability?”

Many football experts believe that the conflict between the two legends may stem from different views on how to end their careers. Zidane always believed that players need to “retire with honor”, ​​while Ronaldo pursued the philosophy of “fighting to the end”. CR7 once said in an interview: “I will stop when my body says I can’t anymore – not when others tell me to stop.”

However, it is undeniable that Ronaldo’s image in the public eye has changed. From a symbol of dedication, he is being seen as someone who “doesn’t know how to let go”, especially when he constantly makes negative statements to the press and experts who criticize him.

A source close to Zidane revealed that the former Real Madrid coach “has repeatedly advised Ronaldo to choose a good time to retire, but he ignored it”. Perhaps this is what made Zidane decide to publicly express his views to the media.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo’s side has remained silent. He has not given any official response, but according to observers, CR7 certainly does not easily accept criticism from the person who once led him to the pinnacle of glory.

No matter which angle you look at it from, Zidane’s statement still opens up a big debate in the football world: Should legends retire while they are still in form, or continue to fight until they can’t?

And Ronaldo — with his pride and undying desire — will probably be the only one who can answer that question for himself.