Gonçalo Ramos sparks Portugal debate with Instagram post

Gonçalo Ramos has intensified Portugal’s debate over the centre-forward position after sharing a post that portrayed him as the country’s leading striker, then removing it hours later. The episode came during the dispute surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure from the national-team camp and drew criticism from many of Ronaldo’s supporters.

Ramos, 25, had started Portugal’s previous three matches in place of Ronaldo and responded with three goals and an assist. He also scored in Sunday’s 2-1 win over Norway, a result that sent Portugal into the competition’s quarter-finals. After the match, the AC Milan forward shared comments from football commentator Luís Freitas Lobo and added wording that endorsed his standing as the best player.

The moment has greater weight because Ramos has generally operated behind Ronaldo for Portugal. Since his debut in 2022, he has collected 31 caps and 14 goals, but only 13 of those appearances have been starts. His recent run has given him a clearer claim to the central striking role, while his removal of the post has ended the immediate social-media controversy without resolving the sporting question.

Ramos had a limited role at the last World Cup, appearing briefly in two matches, although he scored the late winner against Croatia. Portugal’s coach Jorge Jesus said the striker’s recent goals and assists reflected his development and that he would be important for Milan and coach Ruben Amorim.