Portugal: Speculation
regarding the future of Portugal’s
Cristiano Ronaldo and his outburst following his substitution against South Korea were in sharp focus on Monday ahead
of their World Cup last-16 game against Switzerland.
The forward, who left Manchester United by mutual consent last month following
a controversial interview, was linked with a potential move to Saudi Arabia but Portugal coach Fernando Santos said
he knew nothing about it.
“I
have not spoken to him about this,” Santos
told a news conference ahead of Tuesday’s game against the Swiss. “I don’t know
about this. It is his decision. I did not even know about this and I heard
about this when I arrived here.”
Ronaldo’s future is unclear with several clubs around the world reportedly
interested in signing him.
“We
are focused on the World Cup. I don’t know anything about this other issue,”
the coach said.
Santos had to continue answering questions about his
player, however, including his outburst following his substitution in the final
group match against South Korea
with Ronaldo having said it was not directed at his coach but triggered by an
opponent's comment.
“Yes,
I did not like it, not at all. I really did not like it and from that moment on
that issue is finished,” Santos
said.
The
coach also refused to comment on speculation back home about whether Ronaldo
would feature in his lineup against the Swiss on Tuesday or would start on the
bench.
“I
do not read this type of information. I am focused on my team. We are focusing
on training and not paying attention to any polls,” Santos said. “What I have always done is
focus on the immediate match. I am not worried if information is right or
wrong.”
For
Santos, what is important is Portugal
reaching the last eight for the first time since 2006.
“There
has been a long hiatus.... what matters is this match. Portugal always have the obligation to win,”
said Santos,
who has been in charge since 2014.
“For
us it is good to feel this pressure. We want it and we really want to win.
After each game, if you win the game you are closer to being a favourite,” he
added.
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