“Do you really think it’s a good idea,” Here’s how Cristiano Ronaldo reacted after getting benched against Switzerland at 2022 FIFA World Cup R-16 clash
Fernando Santos and Cristiano Ronaldo
As the FIFA World Cup continues to capture the attention of millions, Cristiano Ronaldo remains a notable figure. Portugal will take on Morocco in the quarter-finals. Recent reports have implied that Ronaldo was reportedly ready to leave the tournament after his substitute role in that game, though the Portuguese Football Association has refuted this. The situation has now been clarified by Fernando Santos, bringing an end to the speculation.
Fernando Santos’ choice to leave Cristiano Ronaldo out of the Round of 16 match sparked criticism from the player’s supporters and relatives. Nevertheless, Ronaldo accepted the decision and is still driven to assist the squad to the best of his ability. However, Santos clarified the situation in his latest press conference.
Santos said, “The only conversation I had was that day, the game day and I explained why he would not play,”. He further added, “Cristiano naturally was not happy as he has always been a starter apart from one or two games. He was not happy and he told me, ‘Do you really think it’s a good idea?’. But we had an important conversation in which I explained my view and of course, he accepted. We had a frank and normal conversation.”
Ronaldo is renowned for his unparalleled dedication to the sport. His exemplary commitment to the game has enabled him to remain a leading figure for over two decades. While understandable that he might feel disappointed for not being included in the starting lineup, he is still devoted to achieving the team’s aspirations.
Mesut Ozil jumps comes in support of Cristiano Ronaldo
Mesut Ozil, a former Germany midfielder, has defended Cristiano Ronaldo, explaining that the Portuguese footballer deserves to be respected. Ozil and Ronaldo spent four seasons together at Real Madrid and built a strong relationship. Despite having recently left Manchester United, Ronaldo’s luck has not improved while playing in the World Cup in Qatar. Ozil commented that Ronaldo often becomes the center of attention, but people often look to gain attention by spreading negative rumors about him.
In the last 16 stage, Portugal enjoyed a convincing 6-1 victory over Switzerland. Reports subsequently circulated claiming that Ronaldo had threatened to quit the tournament following a discussion with coach Fernando Santos. To quash the rumors, the country’s football federation released a statement clarifying the incident. Ahead of their quarter-final match against Morocco, Santos spoke about the matter to set the record straight.
“I really don’t get where this constant negativity from the press about Cristiano comes from,” Ozil stated. He also added “I don’t think anyone from the new generation will be able to match his numbers again. He will forever be in his own category. Everyone should show more respect to one of the greatest athletes in sports history,”
Ujan Chakraborty
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