Rio Ferdinand reacts to Cristiano Ronaldo’s dig at Wayne Rooney and insists there is ‘no way back’ for Manchester United striker

Ronaldo took a somewhat surprising swipe at Red Devils legend Rooney in an extraordinary interview with Piers Morgan that looks set to bring an end to his Old Trafford career.

Rooney, who is Manchester United’s record goalscorer, has been critical of Ronaldo and claimed Erik ten Hag’s side are better without him.

England legend Rooney also described Ronaldo’s recent conduct as ‘unacceptable’ after he refused to come on during a Premier League match and left the stadium early.

Responding to Rooney’s comments, Ronaldo said: ‘I don’t know why he criticises me so badly… probably because he finished his career and I’m still playing at a high level.

‘I’m not going to say that I’m looking better than him. Which is true…’

Reacting to Ronaldo’s dig at Rooney, Ferdinand said: ‘Wazza’s come out and said a few things about Ronaldo which is well within his right. But Cristiano’s taken offence to it and mentioned him in the interview.

As mates you want to see that done behind closed doors, you know what I mean? It is what it is now between them two and I don’t think they’ll be sending each other any Christmas cards.’

In a bombshell interview, Ronaldo also said he felt ‘betrayed’ by Manchester United and admitted he does not respect manager Ten Hag.

Ronaldo impressed last season after completing a sensational return to Old Trafford but has featured less regularly this season and underwhelmed when he has been selected.