Yuri Djorkaeff condemns Portugal's World Cup 2026 showing and alleged Ronaldo boycott

Former French World Cup winner Yuri Djorkaeff criticised Portugal’s performance at the 2026 World Cup, describing the team’s display as a sign of declining football quality. He said the side failed to play for its star striker, Cristiano Ronaldo, and suggested a "boycott" by teammates, noting that the ball was not passed to him and he was not put in optimal positions.

Djorkaeff also lamented the lack of technically talented players, comparing the current generation unfavourably with past stars such as Ronaldo and Endrick. He called the Brazilian‑Norwegian match he watched “so weak it makes you want to vomit” and argued that modern football lacks decisive, technically gifted forwards.

His comments were made on the French sports programme After Foot RMC, sparking debate over Portugal’s tactics and the broader state of the game.