Cristiano Ronaldo unfollows Joao Neves on Instagram after criticism

Portuguese midfielder João Neves, after the national team’s 1‑1 draw with DR Congo at the World Cup, said Cristiano Ronaldo was “just another player”. The remark sparked a wave of negative comments from Ronaldo’s supporters, many of which were directed at Neves and his girlfriend, actress Madalena Aragão.

In response, Ronaldo removed Neves from his Instagram following list. He later posted a photo of several Portugal players with the caption “Mereu uniți!” (Always united), appearing to downplay the dispute. The incident highlights the intense fan engagement surrounding Portugal’s World Cup campaign and the players’ social‑media interactions.