Cristiano Ronaldo Tears Into ‘Two Rats’ After Euro 2024 Criticism
Legend Responds to Lineker & Shearer With Scathing Words After Penalty Miss Backlash

Cristiano Ronaldo has never been one to shy away from pressure — or from critics. And after Portugal’s heartbreaking elimination from Euro 2024, the football icon is making headlines once again — not for what he did on the pitch, but for what he said off it.

The 39-year-old legend, who missed a crucial penalty during Portugal’s quarterfinal clash, has come under intense scrutiny from some of England’s most well-known football pundits — including former strikers Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer, who were quick to voice their disappointment and question Ronaldo’s continued role in high-stakes international competitions.

But now, Ronaldo has had enough. And his response is as fiery as his playing style.

🔥 “They sit in studios, I fight on fields.”

In a post-match press conference that quickly turned explosive, Ronaldo didn’t hold back when asked about the media criticism coming from the UK.

“They can talk all they want — two rats feeding off relevance,” Ronaldo said, in what many believe was a direct jab at Lineker and Shearer.
“They sit in studios with their suits, I’ve fought for 20 years on the pitch. If they think one penalty defines me, they’ve never understood greatness.”

The Portuguese captain’s words sent shockwaves across the football world, with “Two Rats” trending globally on X (formerly Twitter) within minutes of the statement.

🧨 The Backlash That Triggered It All

Ronaldo’s missed penalty — a heart-wrenching moment for fans — was quickly dissected by BBC pundits. Lineker labeled it “selfish for him to keep taking these moments,” while Shearer added, “He looks like he’s chasing his legacy, not the team’s success.”

The comments sparked controversy online, dividing fans and experts. Some agreed it was time for Ronaldo to step aside; others saw the criticism as disrespectful to a legend who continues to defy age and expectations.

🇵🇹 Support from Within Portugal

While UK pundits took aim, Portugal rallied behind their captain. National teammates, journalists, and even President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa voiced support for Ronaldo.

“Cristiano is not just a player. He is a symbol of Portuguese resilience,” said midfielder Bruno Fernandes.
“Criticizing him like that, especially from people who’ve never walked in his shoes, shows a lack of class.”

📉 The Bigger Question: What Now for CR7?

Despite the painful exit from Euro 2024, Ronaldo remains Portugal’s all-time top scorer and an ever-present figure in their attack. But with age catching up and a younger generation rising, questions loom about whether this was his final European Championship.

“I will speak in time,” Ronaldo said when asked about his international future.
“For now, I just want to protect my country, my team — and my legacy.”

💬 Social Media Reaction

Fans across social platforms exploded with reactions:

@RonaldoLegacy7: “He built an empire on goals. These pundits built their careers watching him. He’s earned the right to clap back.”

@FootyTalkDaily: “Calling Lineker and Shearer ‘rats’ is wild. But Ronaldo has always been unapologetically himself.”

🧠 Final Thought

Love him or hate him, Cristiano Ronaldo never stays silent when his name is under fire. His response to Euro 2024 criticism wasn’t just about defending a missed penalty — it was about reclaiming his place in football’s narrative.

One thing is certain: Ronaldo’s legacy isn’t going anywhere. And if this was his last Euro, he’s making sure the world knows he went out fighting — on and off the