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– 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 reacted angrily when he was substituted.
Also Read: Manager Santos reveals reason why Ronaldo was dropped by Portugal against Switzerland
– The FPF said: “At no time did Cristiano Ronaldo threaten to leave the national team during the stay in Qatar.”
Official statement from Portuguese FA 🚨🇵🇹 #Qatar2022
“Reports claiming Cristiano Ronaldo threatened to leave the national team during a conversation with Fernando Santos are not true — FPF clarifies that at no time did Cristiano threaten to leave the national team in Qatar”. pic.twitter.com/xEJO98ZaXM
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 8, 2022
– 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.
– Ronaldo, who is Portugal’s most-capped player (195) and all-time leading goalscorer (118), was used as a late substitute in that game but, afterwards left the field while his team-mates were still celebrating.
– “Cristiano Ronaldo builds up a unique track record every day at the service of the national team and the country, which must be respected,” added the FPF.
– “The degree of dedication of the player most capped by Portugal was again demonstrated – if necessary – in the victory against Switzerland, in the round of 16 of the 2022 World Cup.”
– Portugal face Morocco in the quarter-finals on Saturday (15:00 GMT).
– Ronaldo did not train with the other substitutes after Wednesday’s game, instead taking part in a gym session alongside those that started against Switzerland.
