Ronaldo also deserves a send-off like Messi's, says Gary Lineker.

Both are legends. Yet, the current narratives surrounding Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in their national team jerseys stand worlds apart.
Messi played his final match for Argentina amidst great fanfare, receiving a farewell filled with the love of teammates, supporters, and the entire nation. In contrast, uncertainty looms over Ronaldo's national team future following his abrupt departure from the training camp due to a rift with coach Jorge Jesus.
Former England star Gary Lineker is unhappy with the starkly different fates of these two legends. He believes that Ronaldo, the all-time leading goalscorer in international football, deserves a dignified farewell just like Messi.
 

Cristiano deserves a similar send-off
On Tuesday, the 41-year-old Ronaldo issued a lengthy statement explaining his reasons for leaving the Portugal camp. He claimed that coach Jorge Jesus had broken a promise made to him, and he detailed the circumstances that led to his departure from the national team setup.
Meanwhile, in his final match for Argentina—a 3-0 victory over Benin—Messi scored one goal and set up two others for his teammates.
An emotional atmosphere enveloped Argentina surrounding Messi's farewell. He was showered with love by fans at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, while supporters from across the globe expressed their respect and affection on social media.

In Lineker's view, Ronaldo deserves a similar send-off.
Speaking to journalists at the 'Leaders Week' sports industry conference at Stamford Bridge, he said,

"I find it a bit sad, because he [Ronaldo] is such a magnificent player. In five or ten years, no one will remember this incident; we will only remember how great he was. Messi's farewell was truly beautiful." Cristiano, too, deserves a farewell just like that.

Two legends in the same rivalry
For a significant part of their careers, Messi and Ronaldo have vied for the title of the greatest footballer of all time. From club football to individual accolades, their rivalry has captivated football fans across the board.
Messi holds the edge when it comes to the Ballon d'Or; the Argentine star has won the award eight times, whereas Ronaldo has claimed it five times.
However, Ronaldo’s achievements in international football are also unparalleled. He currently holds the record for the most goals scored in international football. Therefore, Lineker believes that the final chapter of such a legend's career should not be marred by controversy or bitterness.
Just as Messi’s farewell became a memorable moment filled with love and emotion, Lineker wishes to see a similar send-off for Ronaldo.