Waddle believes Portugal should “just accept his decision and move on” after Cristiano Ronaldo’s reported exit from the national-team picture. The claim remains unconfirmed, but the footballing question is clear: can Roberto Martínez’s successor build a side based on current form rather than reputation?
Portugal still possess attacking quality and a strong midfield base. Bruno Fernandes, alongside other senior players, would be expected to carry more creative and emotional responsibility. Waddle also argues that Ronaldo’s absence could give the manager greater freedom when choosing his forwards.
The former England winger acknowledged Ronaldo’s achievements but felt the ending could have been handled differently. “Sometimes you just need to step aside gracefully, stay part of the group, and come on for the final 15 minutes if needed,” Waddle said.
Messi’s reported international retirement presents a more complicated challenge. He was not only Argentina’s captain and leading creative force but also the player who gave their attacking structure its defining rhythm during the 2022 World Cup triumph.
Argentina have talented forwards, yet replacing Messi’s influence is not simply a matter of selecting another star. His movement, passing range and authority shaped the team’s biggest moments. Waddle believes that makes his departure more damaging than Ronaldo’s absence from Portugal.
“Portugal are better without Ronaldo but Argentina are worse without Messi,” he repeated, drawing a distinction between a squad gaining tactical freedom and one losing its central figure.
For Portugal, Fernandes appears the natural voice of the next generation. Argentina, meanwhile, may need a collective response rather than a single replacement. Waddle even left room for an unexpected successor: “Maybe a 15 or 16-year-old today will be the superstar of the next few years.”
The next international windows will reveal whether Portugal move forward through renewal, and whether Argentina can begin a new era without asking anyone to become Messi overnight.