The Rise and Fall of a Friendship: Why Wayne Rooney Hates Cristiano Ronaldo In the world of football, where rivalries are fierce and friendships are tested, few stories are as intriguing as the relationship between Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo. Once celebrated as two of the most promising talents in world football and best friends on and off the pitch, their relationship took a dramatic turn that left fans and pundits alike speculating: why did these two football giants become enemies? The Beginnings of a Dynamic Duo Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo first crossed paths at Manchester United in 2004. Rooney, the brash, young English striker, and Ronaldo, the flamboyant Portuguese winger, were both prodigies in their own right. Together, they formed a devastating partnership under the management of Sir Alex Ferguson. Their combined talents helped Manchester United dominate English football, winning numerous Premier League titles and a coveted UEFA Champions League trophy in 2008. ...