Cristiano Ronaldo became news again during the Qatar 2022 World Cup, but not for something that happened on the field, but for Manchester United's decision to terminate their contract. Last Tuesday, the English club announced the news, after reaching a mutual agreement, a circumstance that was predictable, after the controversial interview of the top scorer with Piers Morgan, where he criticized executives, coaches, and even teammates.
The determination of the 'Red Devils' was revealed just two days before Portugal's debut in the World Cup and there was concern among fans about the concentration of the experienced forward. However, the coach of the 'Lusos', Fernando Santos, sent a message of tranquility.
"We have not discussed this in the group, not even he (Cristiano) has talked about it. What is important is that the players are convinced of what they have to do, of what their goals are," were the first words of the strategist in a press conference.
Similarly, Fernando Santos played down the importance of external events in the World Cup and assured that the team is fully focused on the group stage. "What we want is to make Portuguese people enjoy, that is our mission. The rest is secondary," highlighted the coach.
Remember that the Portuguese national team will start their journey in Qatar 2022 next Thursday, November 24, facing Ghana at the Stadium 974 in Doha. Unless there is some last minute inconvenience, Cristiano Ronaldo will lead the attack, sharing roles with Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes.
Portugal's Fixture in the World Cup
The Portuguese team was placed in Group H of the Qatar 2022 World Cup, which they will share with Uruguay, Ghana, and South Korea. Know the fixture of the 'Lusos':
Thursday, November 24 (11:00 a.m. Peruvian time)
- Matchday 1: Portugal vs. Ghana - Stadium 974
Monday, November 28 (2:00 p.m. Peruvian time)
- Matchday 2: Portugal vs. Uruguay - Lusail Iconic Stadium
Friday, December 2 (10:00 a.m. Peruvian time)
- Matchday 3: South Korea vs. Portugal - Education City Stadium