World Cup 2026: ‘Your ego is holding Portugal hostage’ – Zlatan Ibrahimovic slams Ronaldo

Former Sweden striker, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, has hit out at Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo amid the ongoing FIFA World Cup.

The former Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain star claimed that Ronaldo’s ego is holding Roberto Martinez’s side hostage.

According to Ibrahimovic, Ronaldo’s role in Portugal’s starting lineup isn’t legendary leadership, adding that the 41-year-old has lost his touch and mobility.

He also reckons Goncalo Ramos should lead Portugal’s attack after he came off the bench to score the winner during their 2-1 win over Croatia in the Round of 32.

“Portugal fans could have expected what’s happening. You can’t expect to win anything in 2026 with a 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo leading the attack,” Ibrahimovic told Fox Sports.

“Especially since Ramos is on the bench, having come on and scored. This isn’t ‘legendary leadership.’ It’s the ego that’s holding the team hostage.

“Ronaldo has lost his touch and mobility. Continuing to start him is pure nostalgia-driven madness.”

Ronaldo has scored three goals so far for Portugal at the World Cup and he will hope to lead his nation to victory when they face Spain be back in action in the  Round of 16 on Monday.

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