Cristiano Ronaldo told he's created massive problem that affects Bruno Fernandes

Cristiano Ronaldo’s domineering presence in the Portugal squad is in danger of overshadowing the likes of Bruno Fernandes. Ronaldo’s domination of set-pieces at Euro 2024 is becoming an issue due to the captain’s habit of firing them into the crowd.

Despite being a dead-ball expert, Fernandes has been reduced to a spectator role while Ronaldo, who missed a crucial penalty against Slovenia before redeeming himself in the shootout, continues to command the spotlight. With Portugal gearing up for a tantalising quarter-final clash against France, the debate is intensifying over whether Ronaldo’s star power is eclipsing the team’s collective brilliance.

Pundits Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer, and Micah Richards have reached a consensus on The Rest Is Football podcast that it’s high time Ronaldo shared the set-piece duties to bolster Portugal’s bid for another European triumph. Shearer highlighted the wealth of talent within the team, saying: “He’s got team-mates who are brilliant at free-kicks.”

Richards chimed in, adding: “It is hard to say to Ronaldo, ‘I’m taking free-kicks’.” Lineker highlighted Ronaldo’s less-than-stellar free-kick track record and said: “It is almost impossible, despite the fact his record is something like one in 60 that he’s scored in tournaments.

“Bruno Fernandes is a better free-kick taker and a more varied free-kick taker than Ronaldo. So while he’s [Ronaldo] a massive strength, he can also be a weakness as well.

“Nothing against Cristiano because what an unbelievable player. I was watching him and his movement in the box is absolutely perfect. He does it better than anybody else I’ve ever seen as a nine, the way he goes forward one way, then the other way. He does it with a sharpness.”

Lineker suggested Ronaldo’s personality could prove the biggest issue for Portugal and their boss, Roberto Martinez. The Match of the Day presenter added: “It’s more the ego side of him which is more of a weakness, probably for himself, Portugal and Roberto.

“As a manager, you know you’ve got someone whose powers are waning and he’s 39, but he’s still Cristiano Ronaldo. He’s a superstar. He is almost the most famous person on the planet, not just as a footballer.”