Ronaldo Says Explosive Interview ‘Won’t Shake’ Portugal Squad
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo said his explosive TV interview, where the Manchester United forward said he had been betrayed by the club, “won’t shake” their “hungry and focused” squad in the World Cup.
Ronaldo said that he is not worried about how his actions will impact the squad, adding that he feels great about their chances of winning the World Cup.
“In my life, the best timing is always my timing,” Ronaldo told a news conference on Monday. “I don’t have to think about what other people think. I speak when I want. The players know me really well for many years and know the type of person I am.”
“It’s an ambitious group that is hungry and focused,” Ronaldo added. So I’m sure it (the interview) won’t shake the changing room’s concentration and focus.”
Referring to himself in the third person, Ronaldo said that “everything related to him will always spark criticism and controversy.”
Ronaldo, 37, confirmed that the awkward handshake between him and attacking midfielder Bruno Fernandes that was caught on camera and went viral, was the result of a joke between the Portugal and Manchester United team mates.
“My relationship with him (Fernandes) is excellent,” Ronaldo said. “I was joking with him. His plane arrived late and I asked if he had come by boat. That’s it.”
“The environment in the changing room is excellent. No problems. The group is shielded. And I take this opportunity to say: stop asking about me.”
- Read more: ‘I Feel Betrayed’, Cristiano Ronaldo Accuses Manchester United
- Read more: International Friendly: Portugal Puts Four Past Nigeria
After missing Thursday’s friendly against the Super Eagles of Nigeria in Lisbon due to a stomach problem, Ronaldo has been training as usual with team mates since arriving in Qatar on Friday and he said he feels in shape.
“I’m feeling great, I’m recovered and I’m training well and ready to start the World Cup in the best way possible,” Ronaldo said.
“I feel that this Portugal squad has amazing potential. I think we can win for sure, but we need to focus on the next game. So, it’s focusing in Ghana, get a win and go from there.”
“We will see in the end who the best team is, but I believe Portugal is the best team in this World Cup. But we need to show it on the pitch.”
Portugal are in Group H of the World Cup with Ghana, Uruguay and South Korea.
Chidi Nwoke/Reuters.
