Former Nigeria international Peter Odemwingie has questioned whether players competing outside Europe’s top leagues should continue to captain their national teams.

Odemwingie believes playing at the highest level of club football is important for maintaining the standards required to lead a country, using Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo as an example.

Speaking to Brilla Media, the former West Bromwich Albion and Stoke City forward argued that Ronaldo’s move to Saudi Arabia has coincided with a decline in his performances for Portugal.

“Any player who is not playing in a top league should not be allowed to captain a national team. Take a look at Cristiano Ronaldo, who is playing in Saudi Arabia. We can see the decline in his form at international level. He’s riding on past glories,” Odemwingie said.

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Ronaldo left European football in late 2022 when he joined Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, following an illustrious career that included spells with Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner remains one of Portugal’s most influential players and continues to feature prominently for the national team.

However, Odemwingie’s comments have raised questions about his output at the international level.

The Nigerian, who earned 63 caps for the Super Eagles, enjoyed a career across several leagues, including the English Premier League, where he became one of Nigeria’s notable attacking players.

His remarks are likely to generate debate, particularly given Ronaldo’s enduring status as Portugal’s captain and one of the most decorated players in international football.

FKA/