Portugal Deny Ronaldo Threatened To Exit World Cup Squad
The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has denied that Cristiano Ronaldo threatened to leave the World Cup.
Portuguese publication record claims the forward, 37, made the threat after being told he would not start their last 16 game against Switzerland.
In the previous game against South Korea, the Portugal captain had reacted angrily when he was substituted.
The FPF said: “At no time did Cristiano Ronaldo threaten to leave the national team during the stay in Qatar.”
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Ronaldo left Manchester United by mutual agreement before Portugal’s World Cup opener after a controversial interview in which the five time Ballon d’Or winner criticised the club.
Ronaldo was substituted off the field in both of Portugal’s opening games and coach Fernando Santos said he “didn’t like” Ronaldo’s reaction when he was again replaced during the 2-1 group defeat by South Korea.
Goncalo Ramos started instead of Ronaldo against Switzerland and the 21-year-old scored a hat-trick in the 6-1 victory.
BBC / Samuel Isaiah
