A former Italy and Real Madrid star has called for Manchester United striker Cristiano Ronaldo to retire from football, while also revealing he doesn't like the 37-year-old "as a player".
Ronaldo's struggles since the beginning of the season have been widely publicised, with the player having scored just one goal in eight matches for United, although he started only three of those games.
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His poor form seemingly carried over into the latest international break, with the forward having attracted a lot of criticism from fans and some media outlets for his underwhelming displays for Portugal against Czech Republic and Spain.
While his sister Katia Aveiro and compatriot Bruno Fernandes have since defended the five-time UEFA Champions League winner, former Los Blancos star Antonio Cassano has now urged Ronaldo to hang up his boots amid his woeful form.
"At this point, Cristiano should love himself, do himself a favour and understand that, if he cannot reach a level, he must end his career," the 39-capped Italy international told the Muschio Selvaggio podcast.
"He has won everything, he has been a phenomenon. Now it's time to retire.
"I have a lot of respect for CR7, but I don't like him as a player.
"[Lionel] Messi is like [Diego] Maradona. He had to leave Argentina at the age of 14 and face serious physical problems, which speaks of sacrifices."
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With United manager Erik ten Hag appearing to be interested in starting Ronaldo only in the UEFA Europa League this season, it remains to be seen whether or not the marksman will get the nod for the Manchester derby Sunday.
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