Ronaldo's request to be likened to Pele and Maradona draws condemnation

Ex‑USMNT star Jimmy Conrad reacted sharply after Cristiano Ronaldo asked Portugal manager Jorge Jesus to compare him with football legends Pele and Maradona, a move the former United States international described as “crazy”. Conrad’s comments came as Ronaldo issued a lengthy statement about his recent absence.

Portugal’s international break saw Ronaldo leave the national‑team camp halfway through after being an unused substitute in a 4‑2 win over Norway. He remained silent for the remainder of the four‑game stretch, during which Portugal won all three remaining matches without him.

Ronaldo's demand sparks criticism

The request formed part of an eight‑point plan agreed between Ronaldo, Jesus and the Portuguese FA, which stipulated that Jesus should publicly compare Ronaldo with Pele and Maradona. Jesus did not deliver the promised comparison, prompting Ronaldo to abandon the camp and later publish a 1,700‑word explanation.

Conrad blasted the 41‑year‑old forward, saying, “That’s what he wanted Jorge Jesus to tell the public. That is crazy.” He added that asking a manager to make such a claim was “wild”. Fans have since mocked the statement online.

Jesus reacts to Ronaldo's promise breach after international incident

Daniel's unconventional rise in sports media

After deciding late that he wanted a career in sports journalism, Daniel opted against university and began working with as a freelance contributor and translator during transfer windows, while also volunteering on several blog pages to build a portfolio.

He later joined Barnet FC’s social‑media team before launching his own website focused on football and MMA content. The site led to work with 90min and Reach PLC, contributing to, Daily Record, Daily Express and Manchester Evening News.

Hamann criticizes Ronaldo as a brake for Portugal after dispute

Daniel then spent two‑and‑a‑half years with Breaking Media, covering Everton, Rangers, Leeds, West Ham and other clubs, before becoming Premier League editor at GiveMeSport. He also appears on YouTube and podcast programmes, and keeps a detailed log of his MMA‑related projects.