Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has refuted claims that Cristiano Ronaldo has threatened to skip the World Cup.
According to Portuguese media outlet Record, the 37-year-old attacker threatened to leave the team after learning he wouldn’t start their last-16 match against Switzerland.
The captain of Portugal reacted violently when he was replaced in the last match against South Korea.
The FPF said: “At no time did Cristiano Ronaldo threaten to leave the national team during the stay in Qatar.”
Before Portugal’s World Cup opening, Ronaldo departed Manchester United amicably following a contentious interview in which the five-time Ballon d’Or winner criticized the team.
In both of Portugal’s early matches, Ronaldo was taken off the field and coach Fernando Santos stated he “didn’t appreciate” Ronaldo’s response when he was taken off again during the 2-1 group loss to South Korea.
In place of Ronaldo, Goncalo Ramos started the match against Switzerland, and the 21-year-old scored three goals in the 6-1 victory.
“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.
Portugal followed Manchester United’s lead and decided they could be better off without Cristiano Ronaldo, reducing him to the status of the superstar no one wants.
And they were better off for it, as Portugal’s coach Fernando Santos was rewarded for his bravery in letting go of his nation’s sporting icon with a comprehensive attacking performance and a 6-1 victory over Switzerland, setting up a World Cup quarterfinal matchup against Morocco.
Santos was not only vindicated for his decision to axe Ronaldo after publicly criticising his gestures when he was substituted in the last group game against South Korea, he hit the jackpot as his young replacement Goncalo Ramos looked the real deal in hitting a superb hat-trick.
It has been a bruising time for 37-year-old Ronaldo’s considerable pride and ego as first his Manchester United career ended in acrimony following public criticism of the club and now Portugal did what was previously unthinkable – at least going as far back as 31 games and before Euro 2008 – and ditched him from their starting line-up at a major tournament.
This was certainly the bravest selectorial call of this World Cup and the biggest of Santos’ eight-year time in charge of Portugal.
Santos, despite having a Euro 2016 win on his CV, will have known what was at stake by making this seismic change. If Portugal had lost, he would have known who would carry the can for their World Cup exit and it would not have been Cristiano Ronaldo.
Instead, Santos watched with his usual stern expression as Portugal looked a more vibrant, fluid and threatening side without all their focus trained on the often overpowering presence of Ronaldo.
Portugal moved smoothly through midfield with Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes at the controls, and up front Benfica’s 21-year-old striker Ramos, previously unknown on this sort of goal-scoring stage, carried any burden he may have been feeling as Ronaldo’s replacement lightly.
The previously subdued but richly talented Joao Felix looked liberated, rather like the rest of the Portugal team.
Ramos’s hat-trick came in various very well-taken shapes via a near-post finish thrashed high past Switzerland keeper Jan Sommer, then a poacher’s near-post strike from a cross, before a clever dink for his hat-trick. Some first full Portugal start.
Ronaldo, prior to this game, had played 514 minutes of World Cup knockout football without a goal. Ramos had three in 67 minutes.
Pepe, the 39-year-old defensive warhorse, showed age was not a factor in Santos’s thoughts as he headed the second while Ramos showed he could make them as well as score them when he set up Raphael Guerriero to make it 4-0.
And through it all sat Ronaldo, cameras trained on every facial expression as the Portuguese national hero saw the first signs of his international career following his Manchester United career into the past.
He was swarmed by hundreds of cameramen once the national anthems had finished playing and there was an almost testimonial feel to what happened once Portugal proved they were superior for his absence by routing a bitterly disappointing Switzerland.
Ramos had made it 5-1, Portugal were cruising, when a huge roar of “Ronaldo” started to sweep around the vast Lusail Stadium, followed by chants of his celebratory trademark “Siu”.
It appeared to be a large number of locals who had paid their money to see Ronaldo in the flesh who were leading the demands. It may even have been the suffering Switzerland fans hoping Santos would remove their tormentor Ramos.
Santos relented with 16 minutes left, sending Ronaldo on for Joao Felix to a pop star’s reception.
It was all vaguely awkward – even a touch embarrassing – as the fading talisman trotted on to make what felt like a personal appearance rather than a meaningful contribution in a World Cup knockout game.
There was an air of anticipation every time Ronaldo received the ball, those inside the arena desperate to see some of the old magic. They almost saw it when he rammed in a shot but the boos rang out as the offside flag went up.
Even Ronaldo’s brief spell in the limelight was stolen away from him when another bright young Portugal striker, Rafael Leao, came on and rounded of this thumping win with the sort of finish, curled into the top corner, that already has the 23-year-old marked down as a future star at AC Milan.
Cristiano Ronaldo was cheered loudly by the Portugal fans and had his name chanted several times throughout the match
At the final whistle, Ronaldo applauded the crowd then was first down the tunnel, leaving the real celebrations to those who deserved it, namely his Portugal team-mates who had delivered their finest performance of this World Cup and who will threaten anyone performing like this.
Ronaldo may yet make a decisive contribution at this tournament – he is trying to attract a new club after all – but it is hard to see him making it as a starter against Morocco.
After being shown the door at Manchester United for his petulance and outspoken views on the club’s hierarchy, he now finds himself marginalised on territory where he must have thought he was even more untouchable with Portugal.
As the old saying goes, Ronaldo was the future once. He increasingly looks like the past and the future belongs to emerging stars such as Ramos and Leao.
So what now for the fallen idol of club and country? Surely the bench at best against Morocco.
Cristiano Ronaldo praised Portugal’s “historic” World Cup victory over Switzerland on social media.
Ronaldo, 37, came off the bench last night as the Selecao defeated the Swiss 6-1 to advance to Saturday’s quarterfinal matchup with Morocco.
After leaving Manchester United, the Portuguese superstar became a free agent, and he was the center of attention before the game.
But Goncalo Ramos, who took his spot in the starting lineup, made headlines with a hat-trick and an assist in the round-of-16 match.
Ronaldo, who had a goal disallowed for offside, said on Instagram: “Amazing day for Portugal, with a historic result in the biggest contest in world soccer.
“Luxury display by a team full of talent and youth.
“Congratulations to our national team. The dream is alive! To the very end! Come on, Portugal!”
The top male scorer in men’s international soccer, Cristiano Ronaldo has made a colossal impact on Portugal over the past 20 years.
The veteran forward has scored some spectacular goals and has come up clutch on several occasions — helping his nation win their first major honour in 2016.
Ahead of the last-16 tie with Switzerland, we take a look at five of Ronaldo’s best international strikes.
Portugal 3-3 Spain (2018)
The 2018 World Cup did not end in glory for Ronaldo but he did play his part in helping Portugal progress past the group stages.
Drawn into Group B with Morocco, Spain and Iran, the No7 knew he had to be at the peak of his powers to carry his country through in Russia.
The match against Spain was a thriller for the neutral — Ronaldo had already bagged a brace but found himself 3-2 down in the 90th minute.
Drawing a foul on the edge of the box, he stepped up and curled past David de Gea, who could only watch the ball sail past him.
The point ended up earning Portugal a place in the latter stages of the tournament but they fell to Uruguay in the last 16.
Hungary 3-3 Portugal (2016)
Cristiano Ronaldo scored with an audacious flick against Hungary in 2016
Ronaldo’s brace against Hungary back in Euro 2016 was crucial in Portugal’s run to the final and eventual triumph over France.
The European giants found themselves behind on three occasions in the game and Ronaldo brought them back from the depths twice.
His first, at 1-0 down, was a special flick from a cross — the former Manchester United man wrong-footed the keeper to become the first player to score at four European Championships.
At 3-2 down, Ronaldo struck again. This time with a deft header that soared past Gabor Kiraly to tie the game.
Portugal did not win the match but the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s contributions sealed passage to the knockout stages.
Armenia 2-3 Portugal (2015)
Ronaldo provided another masterclass in a Euros qualifier against Armenia in 2016, netting a hat-trick to seal victory for Fernando Santos’ side.
Portugal went 1-0 down early on before the phenom equalised from the penalty spot.
He then scored twice in three minutes — including a stunning long-range effort — to prevent an Armenian comeback.
The Real Madrid legend was given acres of space in the final third and he thundered an effort into the top right corner, leaving goalkeeper Roman Berezovsky with no chance.
It may have only been a qualifier but Ronaldo‘s strike will mean that the match lives on in the memory of most football fans.
Portugal 2-3 Ecuador (2013)
Cristiano Ronaldo scored a famous volley against Ecuador in 2013
The only game to make it onto our list where Ronaldo was on the losing side but his goal against Ecuador deserves a mention.
In a match of no significance, the ex-Juventus striker pulled off an outrageous piece of skill and topped it with an incredible finish to draw his team level at the time.
Reaching an overhit cross, Ronaldo flicked the ball over the head of an Ecuadorian defender and smashed home a half-volley.
It was a goal of the highest standard — even for one of the greatest of all time — and it has been earmarked as one of his most memorable strikes.
There is still time for him to add another worldie to his collection, but he will do well to beat his goal in Guimaraes.
Portugal 2-1 Netherlands (2012)
Cristiano Ronaldo scored a brace in the last-16 tie against the Netherlands at Euro 2012
The Netherlands were a hot favourite to win Euro 2012 having made the final of the World Cup two years earlier.
In this last-16 clash, Ronaldo came up with the goods once again to secure Portugal’s passage to the quarter-finals by scoring a brace in Kharkiv.
Rafael van der Vaart gave the Dutch the lead but the Madeira-born talisman was deadly on the counter-attack and equalised soon after.
Ronaldo struck again in the second half, showing calmness and composure to cut back onto his right before wrong-footing the keeper and slotting home.
The victory saw Portugal continue their charge but they fell short once again, losing to Spain on penalties in the semi-finals.
Usain Bolt is disappointed at Cristiano Ronaldo leaving Manchester United, praising the forward for helping the team finish last season in the Premier League.
The Portugal captain left Old Trafford last month by mutual consent after harshly criticizing the team, manager Erik ten Hag, and owners, the Glazer family, in an interview.
Bolt, an eight-time Olympic gold medalist and United supporter, expresses disappointment over the star’s decision but emphasizes that he understands it.
“It’s sad to see him go,” said Bolt of Ronaldo. “He played such an important role for us last season. He kept us in the Premier League last season. Because many games he was the one he scored, kept giving us points.
“So it is sad to see him go, but I understand by listening to his interview there is a lot going on that a lot of us don’t know.
“I wish him all the best on his journey because I am a massive Cristiano Ronaldofan. So it is sad to see him gone.”
Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United by mutual agreement, with immediate effect.
The club thanks him for his immense contribution across two spells at Old Trafford.#MUFC
The sale by the Glazer family, who have long drawn criticism from the club’s supporters, has been anticipated by Ronaldo’s departure, and Bolt adds that it is something that fans have been eager to see for a time.
“For me, it has been [a] long time [coming] for the fans,” he added. “[They] have spoken about this for years. Since Alex Ferguson [left], the club has been up and down,
“It surprised me as a supporter to know that the club hasn’t really moved on technology-wise to try to improve and to help the players to move forward.
“So, to get new owners, hopefully they’ll come in and develop the club in a way that is necessary.”
Cristiano Ronaldo has agreed terms on a new deal with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr, for a deal that will see him overtake Kylian Mbappe on the pay scale as the word’s highest paid player.
Marca say that a deal between the two is close and with terms agreed, it appears it only remains for Ronaldo to pull the trigger.
Ronaldo departed Manchester United shortly before the World Cup began. Seemingly none of the approaches from either Europe or Major League Soccer have come close to reaching the deal that Al-Nassr are proposing.
He would be paid €200m per year, and sign a deal for the next two-and-a-half seasons. That deal would even out as €500m in total, it is not yet clear whether there will be added signing bonuses. The 37-year-old would be 40 by the time that contract expires.
It would mark the end of an era and a stepping down from the pedestal of top level football for Cristiano Ronaldo. In a career so far spanning two decades, Ronaldo has played 949 games, scored 702 goals and given 223 assists in European football. Perhaps one of the most divisive characters in football history, there is no doubt European football will not be the same without him.
Cristiano Ronaldo has been given a once-in-a-lifetime contract to play for a Saudi Arabian club following his departure from Manchester United.
At the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the forward, who is now 37 years old, is now playing for Portugal.
As Ronaldo prepares to make history by becoming the first male footballer to score in five straight World Cups, CBS Sports reports that Al Nassr FC of Saudi Arabia has made him a whopping $225 million three-year offer. The agreement is said to go into effect following the World Cup.
Ronaldo has shown a strong desire to play solely at the top level available in Europe. Ronaldo was given a contract that will essentially pay him $75 million a year. According to reports, discussions started in the summer, and the team is now waiting for Ronaldo to make up his mind.
One of the most prosperous clubs in Asia and Saudi Arabia is Al Nassr FC.
The club has a total of nine league championships. According to reports, Ronaldo has also being pursued by their rival Al Hilal.
The football player’s post-World Cup plans are still unknown. Cristiano Ronaldo has not yet offered any commentary.
Bruno Fernandesscored both goals as Portugal secured a World Cup last-16 place with a 2-0 win over Uruguay at Lusail Stadium.
The Manchester United midfielder broke the deadlock in a scrappy Group H clash when his 54th-minute cross, which was aimed at Cristiano Ronaldo, nestled in the far corner.
He then wrapped up the points with a stoppage-time penalty and almost had a hat-trick as Fernando Santos’ side joined France and Brazil in sealing their passage to the knockout stages with a game to spare.
The win saw Portugal avenge their 2-1 defeat by Uruguay in the last 16 of the 2018 competition in Russia.
Chances did not fall freely during the opening half-hour, with neither side registering a shot on target. William Carvalho’s sweetly struck volley was just too high, while Jose Gimenez sent a looping header narrowly over the crossbar.
The game’s first attempt on target in the 32nd minute almost provided one of the goals of the tournament when Rodrigo Bentancur embarked on a jinking run through the Portugal defence.
But the Uruguay midfielder’s finish let him down, as he shot straight at Diogo Costa when clear on goal.
La Celeste were aiming to become the first nation to record six straight clean sheets in the World Cup group stages, but they were given a warning when Joao Felix hit the side netting in the 51st minute.
Fernandes then opened the scoring three minutes later when his attempted centre, which Ronaldo initially appeared to faintly connect with, evaded Sergio Rochet.
Uruguay looked to respond as Maximiliano Gomez rattled the post and Luis Suarez hit the side netting, but Portugal sealed victory when Fernandes, who was involved in winning the penalty, calmly slotted home from 12 yards after VAR penalised Gimenez for handball.
Fernandes twice went close to completing his hat-trick in the dying moments, Rochet saving his volley before he rattled the woodwork from 20 yards.
What does it mean? Two wins from two for Portugal
For only the third time in their World Cup history, Portugal have won their opening two group games at the finals.
A good omen is that on both previous occasions – 1966 and 2006 – they went on to reach the semi-finals.
Uruguay have failed to score in three consecutive World Cup games for only the second time ever and go into matchday three sitting bottom of the group.
Fernandes at the double
It was a unique brace for Fernandes – FIFA initially credited his first goal to Ronaldo, who insisted he had got a touch – before ruling in the midfielder’s favour.
Fernandes’ double came from a game-high six shots, while his tally of 83 touches was also the highest recorded and no player registered more touches in the opposition box (five) or crosses (five, level with Guillermo Varela) than the United midfielder.
He has been directly involved in eight goals in his last five Portugal appearances (scoring five and assisting three), hitting form at international level at an ideal time.
Quiet Cavani
Edinson Cavani, who netted twice when these nations met in Russia four years ago, was restored to the starting line-up ahead of Luis Suarez.
However, the veteran striker registered just one shot on goal – an early second-half volley he dragged wide – while no starting player had fewer touches than him (21).
Key Opta Stats:
– Portugal have now scored in each of their last eight World Cup games, their best-ever run in the competition.
– Only Brazil (0) and Ecuador (1) have faced fewer opposition shots on target at the 2022 World Cup than Uruguay (3), who conceded with two of the three they faced in this game.
– Portugal tasted victory against a South American side in the World Cup for the first time since 1966 (3-1 v Brazil).
– At 39 years and 275 days old, Portugal defender Pepe became the third-oldest outfield player in World Cup history, behind only Roger Milla (42y, 39d) and Atiba Hutchinson (39y, 292d).
What’s next?
Santos may rest players and rotate his squad for Portugal’s final Group H match against South Korea on Friday. On the same day, Uruguay must beat Ghana to stand any chance of reaching the last 16.
Coaches have such a difficult job. They train their teams tirelessly and come into a game only for a refereeing misjudgment, deliberately or inadvertently, to dislodge everything they’ve planned for.
If you’re Ghana’s Otto Addo, you wouldn’t have nice words for Referee Ismail Elfath whose bad judgment gifted Portugal a penalty in Thursday’s group H FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 game involving Ghana.
“The referee gave a penalty which was not a penalty. Everyone saw that. Why? Because it’s Ronaldo or something? If somebody scores a goal, congratulations. But this was really a gift. A special gift from the referee” said Coach Otto Addo who, like many of were disappointed with the referee’s decision, which handed the Portuguese the lead after 65 minutes with Cristiano Ronaldo’s conversion.
The Black Stars had defended resolutely, containing the Portuguese pressure and frustrating their play for an hour and more. I watched our play with nervousness for there were tense minutes and anxiety could be felt in the shouts of many of the crew inside TV3 studios, anytime Portugal took on our solid defensive organisation.
Yet masking this tension was satisfaction as long as the score line was goalless. Referee Elfath not consulting the VAR on Ronaldo’s penalty only showed he was certain of his decision but his certainty was dubious. The replays invalidated his judgment. Nothing would change his mind. What would momentarily change things for us was Andre Ayew’s 73rd minute equaliser. It eased hearts.
The captain showed leadership. He carried out our wishes beautifully with his goal, ironically, at a time some of us were calling for his substitution. We aren’t coaches. At times, we get it so wrong. We don’t see what the coaches see but the coaches do get it wrong as well. They gamble. It explains why, I think, the Kudus substitution proved costly. It undid our setup and drive as we conceded right afterwards.
Two goals in two minutes; the 78th and 80th minutes from Jaoa Felix and R. Felix. Being on a yellow card in that rather combative game, Otto Addo clarified at the post-match interview that, he was basically sought to protect priced asset, Kudus but that’s what also sunk our momentum. We paid for it. We lost it right there – the questionable penalty notwithstanding.
Baba Rahman, with his place in the team now immutable, covered his “sins” well with his well-worked supply for Osman Bukari to perfectly head home in teh 89th minute. It was sweet but the game was painfully lost. Otto Addo himself sums it appropriately: “The game was “hectic” he says.
“We made some few mistakes which allowed the second and third goal”. Otto is right and it’s the sincerity buried in that admission I admire. Let him and his assistants be guided by the lessons they picked from the Portugal game and not repeat the “mistakes” as we expect victory against South Korea.
“TVI broadcast the debut game which had a total of 3.9 million people watching, with an average audience of 2.3 million and a share of 64.5 percent”, says UM, the media agency of the Mediabrands group.
This was the most watched game of the group stage, followed by the Brazil vs Serbia and France vs Australia games.
According to Univesal McCann, the transmission of this game by TVI was a good bet for the channel, since it recorded a share of 22.2 percent, an increase of 6.8 percentage points compared to the accumulated average for the month of October”.
After a goalless first half, Cristiano Ronaldo opened the scoring for Portugal via the penalty spot but Ghana improved after the goal and scored the equalised through skipper Andre Ayew from close range.
Portugal responded with two goals in two minutes to seal the points – Joao Felix converting a delightfully clipped finish and substitute Rafael Leao coolly stroking in just seconds after coming on.
The Black Stars will now switch their attention to their attention to the match against South Korea on Monday before taking on Uruguay on December 2 at the Education City stadium.
Sutton says the former Real Madrid star has a set a ‘terrible example for young kids everywhere’ because of his ‘cheating’ to win the penalty as quoted by Daily Mail.
Ronaldo elected himself to convert the penalty before two more goals were added by Joao Felix and substitute Rafael Leao to complete the victory in the Group H opener of the World Cup.
Ghana head coach Otto Addo was outraged by Elfath’s decision to give the penalty to the Seleçao as he expressed during the post-match conference.
“If somebody scores a goal, congratulations. But this was really a gift. Really a gift. What more can I say? [It was] a special gift from the referee,” Addo said
In the initial 2022 World Cup Group H match, the Black Stars lost to Portugal 3-2.
With his second-half penalty giving Portugal the lead, Cristiano Ronaldo made history by becoming the first player to ever score five goals at a World Cup.
The West African powerhouse opponent, Uruguay, and South Korea shared the spoils, playing a pulsating 0-0 draw.
Assessing Group H after day one games, the BBC has tipped South Korea, Uruguay, and Portugal to compete for a spot in the round of 16 of the World Cup.
“In Group H, Korea, Uruguay, and Portugal will compete in the round of 16.” said the BBC.
In the 2016 European Champions, Portugal currently sits top of Group H with three points.
Meanwhile, the defeat means Ghana are bottom of Group H after Uruguay and South Korea played out a goalless draw earlier on Thursday.
Ronaldo became the first male player to score in five different World Cups after opening the scoring with a decisive penalty in the second half.
Before Joao Felix and Rafael Leao scored after clever passes from Bruno Fernandes, Andre Ayew tied the score for Ghana.
Ghana scored late, and the score ended up being 3-2.
Ronaldo, who was named man of the match, spoke for only 2 minutes and 12 seconds at the press conference and left just as questions about the penalty decision were about to be asked.
“This is a moment that makes me very proud. That chapter (United) is closed. I’m here to win. The rest does not matter,” he said.
Black Stars coach Otto Addo criticized the decision, describing it as a gift to the Portuguese legend.
The 40-year-old Moroccan-born American was in the eye of the storm after he refused to have a second look at the VAR monitor to judge Mohammed Salisu’s challenge on Cristiano Ronaldo.
He said, “It wasn’t the right decision. Refereeing today has been made easy following the introduction of VAR. So, if you are not very sure of it, just go for a consultation,” he added.
He also commended the Black Stars for their splendid performance against the Portuguese.
“The Black Stars did very well, though they were a bit nervous in the early stages of the game, they came up stronger in the game,” he said.
Ghana would take on South Korea on Monday, November 28, in their search for a qualification slot to the next stage of the competition.
After a scoreless first half, Cristiano Ronaldo scored Portugal’s first goal from the penalty spot. Ghana responded well to the goal, though, and captain Andre Ayew scored the equaliser from close range.
Joao Felix converted a beautifully clipped finish for Portugal’s second goal, with substitute Rafael Leao coolly stroked in just seconds after coming on, sealing the victory with two goals in two minutes.
Osman Bukari scored a late consolation goal for Ghana, but the ninth minute of stoppage time almost saw real drama break out.
“In the end, it was very difficult, but the most important thing was the victory. Now let’s focus on the next game,” Guerreiro said after the game
“Yes. If we win the next game, we qualify. We’re on the right track. On the way to being champions? Right.”
The Black Stars will now switch their attention to the match against South Korea on Monday before taking on Uruguay on December 2 at the Education City stadium.
The Mundial which began on Sunday 20th November saw South Korea take on Uruguay at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan. The game ended goalless.
BBC pundit Chris Sutton who has been described as the human Octopus for getting his predictions right stated that South Korea will beat Ghana 1-0. He predicted Japan’s 2-1 win against Germany. Sutton also added that South Korea’s goalless draw wasn’t a dull game but the Koreans didn’t take the chances they created.
According to Sutton: “Korea scored a scoreless draw with Uruguay, but the flow was not dull. Chance couldn’t be saved. South Korea will feel that it will be possible to pass the farewell league by catching Ghana in a tight-hearted Joe.”
“ Cristiano Ronaldo threw himself on the ground and the referee would continue to believe this, but if he would not, he would be determined to win by a penalty kick, but he would not.”
South Korea has been tipped to beat Ghana 1-0 on Monday in their second group game at the 2022 World Cup. The game against the Black Stars of Ghana will be played at the Education City Stadium at 13:00 GMT.
The Mundial which began on Sunday 20th November saw South Korea take on Uruguay at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan. The game ended goalless.
BBC pundit Chris Sutton who has been described as the human Octopus for getting his predictions right stated that South Korea will beat Ghana 1-0. He predicted Japan’s 2-1 win against Germany. Sutton also added that South Korea’s goalless draw wasn’t a dull game but the Koreans didn’t take the chances they created.
According to Sutton: “Korea scored a scoreless draw with Uruguay, but the flow was not dull. Chance couldn’t be saved. South Korea will feel that it will be possible to pass the farewell league by catching Ghana in a tight-hearted Joe,”
Chris Sutton also spoke about Cristiano Ronaldo‘s penalty against Ghana. He slammed the former Manchester United player for diving.
“ Cristiano Ronaldo threw himself on the ground and the referee would continue to believe this, but if he would not, he would be determined to win by penalty kick, but he would not,”
After Portugal’s contentious World Cup victory over Ghana, it is said that star player Cristiano Ronaldo stormed out of a press conference.
Ronaldo became the first male player to score in five different World Cups after opening the scoring with a decisive penalty in the second half.
Before Joao Felix and Rafael Leao scored after clever passes from Bruno Fernandes, Andre Ayew tied the score for Ghana. Ghana scored late, and the score ended up being 3-2.
Ghanaians are outraged because the penalty converted by Ronaldo was dubious and cost the Black Stars the game.
Ronaldo, who was named man of the match, spoke for only 2 minutes and 12 seconds at the press conference and left just as questions about the penalty decision were about to be asked.
“This is a moment that makes me very proud. That chapter (United) is closed. I’m here to win. The rest does not matter,” he said.
Black Stars coach Otto Addo criticized the decision, describing it as a gift to the Portuguese legend.
Inaki Williams of the Black Stars, a striker, nearly shocked Portugal with a sensational late equalizer that sent Cristiano Ronaldo dumbfounded.
The Athletic Bilbao forward was positioned behind Diogo Costa, the goalie, who had the ball in his hands as the Black Stars trailed Ronaldo’s Portugal 3-2 in stoppage time.
Williams sneaked up behind Costa to win the ball after he rolled it out because Costa neglected to glance behind him.
However, the 28-year-old made touch with the goalkeeper at a critical moment and slipped. After the incredible escape, Danilo Pereira cleared off the line as captain Ronaldo shook his head in shock.
Inaki Williams responded to the Black Stars’ World Cup 2022 loss to Portugal following the match.
There is no time for regrets, there are 2 games left still… 🦾
Thank you fans for the unconditional support. ♥️🇬🇭 pic.twitter.com/3haQ8M2w6e
What happened:Portugal were awarded a penalty in the 62nd minute when Cristiano Ronaldo was knocked over by Mohammed Salisu.
VAR decision: Penalty stands, scored by Ronaldo.
VAR review: This only required a quick check by the VAR, United States referee Armando Villarreal.
Replays showed that Ronaldo definitely got to the ball first ahead of Salisu before there was contact on the Portugal striker’s boot and upper body.
Even though this could certainly be considered a soft penalty, we have to look at it in VAR terms; it would not be seen as a clear and obvious error by the match referee, fellow American official Ismail Elfath. Equally, if the referee hadn’t given the penalty, it’s unlikely the VAR would have advised a spot kick.
If Salisu had gotten to the ball first before Ronaldo, this would have been grounds for a full review, but unfortunately for the Ghana defender, he failed to do so.
Ronaldo also thought he had scored in the 31st minute, but the referee had already blown for a foul against him for a push on Alexander Djiku. The VAR is unable to review anything after the referee’s whistle, so he cannot look back at the foul to award the goal.
One of Ghana’s favourite actress,Kafui Danku has revealed that despite being married, she will gladly marry four men in addition to her husband if Ghana makes it to the finals at the ongoing world cup.
Ghana lost their opening game at the 2022 World Cup to Portugal on Thursday, with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring a controversial penalty in Doha.
Ronaldo’s goal put Portugal ahead, but Ghana’s fighting spirit paid off when Andre Ayew equalised. While Ghanaians were still celebrating, Portugal scored through Joao Felix, and it soon became 3-1 for the Europeans.
Substitute Osman Bukari gave Ghana hope with a close-range header, setting up a tense finish at the Stadium 974.
The first one slipped away thanks to a poor first touch and the second went begging when he headed wide having done all the hard work in climbing to meet a cross.
Well, at the end of match, Portugal won against Ghana with 3 goals. But despite losing, fans of the black stars still have hope of Ghana winning the match.
Ghanaian forward Osman Bukari, claims that imitating Cristiano Ronaldo‘s “SIU” celebration after scoring a consolation goal in their 3-2 loss to Portugal on Thursday was not meant as a disrespect.
After a scoreless first half, Portugal’s Captain Ronaldo took the lead for his country by converting a penalty after being fouled in the area by Ghanaian defender Mohammed Salisu.
Following the goal, Ghana improved and captain Andre Ayew scored a close-range equalizer.
But Portugal responded with two goals in two minutes to seal the points – Joao Felix converting a delightfully clipped finish and substitute Rafael Leao coolly stroking in just seconds after coming on.
Osman Bukari headed in a late consolation for Ghana and there could have been real drama in the ninth minute of stoppage time.
After scoring, Bukari mimicked Ronaldo’s trademark celebration to the delight of the fans at the stadium.
He was criticised after the celebration but has come out defend himself.
“I have noticed my celebration today has generated comments claiming I was disrespectful towards Ronaldo This is incorrect. I was overcome by the emotion of the moment of scoring for my country on my World Cup debut leading to my celebration. My upbringing doesn’t permit me to be disrespectful to elders let alone one of my idols. Thanks for your support and we focus on our next game,” Bukari posted on his twitter page.
Ghanaian player Osman Bukari has defended his imitation of Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic ‘Siuuu’ celebrations after scoring a late consolation in the team’s 2-3 loss to Portugal.
It follows concerns on social media that the celebration was disrespectful towards Ronaldo – who usually celebrates his goals by jumping up while rotating in mid-air and lands shouting “siuuu”.
I have noticed my celebration today has generated comments claiming I was disrespectful towards Ronaldo
This is incorrect. I was overcome by the emotion of the moment of scoring for my country on my World Cup debut leading to my celebration.
Ghana has just concluded its first game in the ongoing FIFA World Cup happening in Qatar.
The game between Ghana and Portugal saw the Cristiano Ronaldo side win controversially with a 3-2 result but that has not taken much away from Ghanaian fans, many of whom have poured out online to express their excitement about the output of the boys.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who was also in Qatar to offer support to the boys, tweeted after the game that he was very proud of the team, looking forward to their next games.
“Gutsy performance by the @GhanaBlackStars in today’s match against Portugal. Very proud of the entire team. They live to fight another day, & have shown they have what it takes to mix it up against any team in the tournament. Looking forward to the next game against South Korea,” he tweeted.
Just as all these celebrations have been going on, a 2014 tweet from Nana Akufo-Addo, who was at the time still trying to become president, has popped up online.
In the tweet, he lamented a number of things that were going wrong in the country at the time.
One of such things he listed in his tweet was the fact that Ghana was yet to get any game-win in the World Cup that was taking place in Brazil.
“No water, no electricity, no petrol, no money, no jobs, no mercy, no World Cup victory! #Ghana,” his tweet, dated July 7, 2014, said.
Ghana is currently going through one of its toughest economic times in history, with nearly every sector of the economy struggling.
See the 2014 tweet by Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo below:
4. No water, no electricity, no petrol, no money, no jobs, no mercy, no World Cup victory! #Ghana
Black Stars of Ghana lost 3-2 to Portugal in their 2022 World Cup opener on Thursday at the Stadium 974 in Doha.
Here are five things we learned from the game:
Cristiano Ronaldo shows he’s not finished yet
All talks before the game was surrounded around one performance and that’s Cristiano Ronaldo. He parted ways with Manchester United prior to the game but he did not allow that to distract him. He scored from the spot to give his side the victory they’ve been looking for and they aim to go all the way to the finals and clinch the title.
Lawrence Ati-Zigi in possession of Ghana’s No.1 shirt
Who would have thought Lawrence Ati-Zigi will be in post for Ghana’s opener against Portugal and I’m assure he would think same. Lawrence kept his first clean for Ghana in their 2-0 win over Switzerland after conceding in all his appearances for the Black Stars. He displayed an impressive performance against Portugal but could not save Ronaldo’s penalty. He deserves to be Ghana’s No.1 for the forseeable future.
Andre Dede Ayew shines again at World stage
He showed why he’s the leader of the team. When hopes were all lost, Ayew stepped up and equalized for Ghana. The 32-year-old will go down as one of the greatest players of all time to ever represent Ghana. He may not be his father but has shone whenever he plays for the Black Stars
Mohammed Kudus shows he’s Ghana’s most in-form player
Ghana’s most in-form player at the moment, Kudus Mohammed will have several clubs chasing after his signature following an impressive showing. He assisted Ghana’s goal and was a difficult to play against. He was by far Ghana’s best player before he was substituted
Alidu Seidu solves Ghana’s right back problem for years
The young and energetic Seidu was a delight to watch on his competitive debut for Ghana. He was lively till he was booked for a foul. He was defensively sound and was effective when attacking on the right flank. Tariq Lamptey will have to wrestle hard to get an opportunity at the World Cup
Cristiano Ronaldo could set a new World Cup record if he finds the net for Portugal in their opening Group H clash with Ghana on Thursday.
Currently part of an exclusive club of four men to score at four finals, Ronaldo could stand alone as the only player to net at five consecutive events with a goal in the Middle East.
A win in the most famous competition of all is the only jewel missing from the attacking star’s crown and his Portuguese side begin their quest for a first global title against the Black Stars.
Ghana ran to the brink of the last four in 2010 before an agonising penalty shoot-out defeat to Uruguay sent them home. However, the African Outfit have failed to reach those heights since, falling in the group stage in 2014 and missing out on qualification in 2018.
Team news
While Renato Sanches and Diogo Jota both missed out on Fernando Santos’s 26-man final squad through injury, the Portugal boss still has a plethora of famous faces under his wing in Qatar.
Joining Ronaldo among the ranks are Joao Cancelo, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva and Rafael Leao, to name just four.
Ronaldo missed the friendly win over Nigeria on Thursday with gastroenteritis but was back in training by Saturday and is expected to take centre stage as Portugal open their campaign.
Ghana boss Otto Addo can call on Athletic Bilbao’s Inaki Williams and Mohammed Kudus of Ajax in attack, along with Premier League names such as Daniel Amartey, Tariq Lamptey, Jordan Ayew and Mohammed Salisu.
Stats
Otto Addo’s Ghana are the lowest-ranked team at the World Cup
The two sides met in Group G at World Cup 2014, with Portugal running out 2-1 winners. In their quest for revenge, Ghana can take some solace from the fact that their opponents on Thursday have lost two of their last four fixtures.
They suffered 1-0 defeats against both Spain and Switzerland in the Nations League, as Santos’s men fell to second place.
Ronaldo and his teammates also had to struggle through a qualification playoff, having been pipped to automatic progression by Serbia. But since, Portugal have won six out of their nine matches and they come up against a Ghana outfit who have won just three of their last six matches.
The Ghanaians are ranked 61st in the world, making them the lowest-ranked nation in Qatar.
Prediction
While perhaps not considered to be in the same bracket as favourites Brazil, Portugal are regarded as a strong shout for a slot in the latter knockout stages and are not envisaged to struggle overly in the group phase against Ghana, Uruguay and South Korea.
A price of 3/4 is available with LiveScore Bet for a Portugal win to nil against the Black Stars, who face a battle to mirror the exploits of 2010 and progress from the round-robin phase.
With his Manchester United departure now confirmed, Ronaldo can welcome in the new year by looking toward the future and laying claim to an individual World Cup goalscoring record would begin this new chapter in style.
The Portugal icon can be backed at 6/5 with LiveScore Bet to score at anytime.
Cristiano Ronaldo has been suspended for two matches and fined £50,000 by the Football Association.
Ronaldo, who was recently let go by Manchester United, was being investigated for breaking a fan’s phone last season.
The striker, who sparked outrage with a recent interview in which he harshly criticised the club, is currently in Qatar, awaiting Portugal’s opening match against Ghana tomorrow.
A statement form the FA said: “Cristiano Ronaldo has been suspended for two matches, fined £50,000 and warned as to his future conduct for a breach of FA Rule E3.
“The forward admitted that his conduct after the final whistle of the Premier League game between Manchester United FC and Everton FC on Saturday 9 April 2022 was improper.
“An independent Regulatory Commission found that his conduct was both improper and violent during a subsequent hearing, and imposed thesesanctions.”
Ghanaians have stepped up their preparations for the Black Starsgame against Portugal in the ongoing 2022 FIFA World Cup on Thursday, November 24, 2022.
This will be the team’s maiden match in a group that also includes tough teams in Uruguay and South Korea.
In reaction to this, scores of individuals, particularly celebrities on social media, have taken to their walls to either predict scores, share encouraging words and prayers in anticipation of the game.
Some have also shared pictures of themselves repping Black Starsparaphernalia and Ghana flags on their social media platforms.
Meanwhile, some individuals are uncertain about the outcome of the game as they believe that it will be somewhat difficult for the Stars to get a positive result against the Portuguese led by Cristiano Ronaldo.
Others, however, are hopeful of a resounding victory for Ghana.
The best players across the globe will soon swap their club kits and report for international duty. To represent their countries in a fight for the greatest prize in all of soccer: the FIFA World Cup. Yes, the world’s marquee sporting event has arrived. We’re a few days away from kicking off the first ever World Cup during the winter. While most aren’t the biggest soccer aficionados, everyone tunes in to the World Cup in some capacity. From watching the matches, to keeping tabs on headlines and consuming all the content, the 2022 World Cup in Qatar is finally upon us. Here is a list of some of the players, not in order, that you should watch for this tournament.
Lionel Messi – Argentina
Leo Messi accepting defeat at the 2014 World Cup Final. Image via Getty
Touted as one of the greatest to most and the GOATto many, PSG’s Lionel Messi goes into the World Cup in fine form with the best Argentina side since they made a run to the Final in 2014. In what is likely his final chance to add a World Cup trophy to all his accolades and silverware, he leads an impressive Argentina team that is on a 35-match unbeaten streak. Considered a dark horse to win the World Cup, this team always has a chance to take it all with Messi dominating the pitch with his brilliance. Expect him to pour everything he has into his final chance at locking up the glory for his country and the undisputed GOAT title.
Cristiano Ronaldo – Portugal
Image via Francois Nel/Getty
Dominating headlines and the sport for well over a decade plus with his talent and charisma, Cristiano Ronaldo enters his final World Cup with a strong Portuguese side. Despite him not being in his best form following a major rift between him and Manchester United to start the club season, this Portugal team is in good position to make a deep run. Ronaldo is always a threat to score goals and with one of the best teams he’s lined up with in this tournament you can expect their talisman to turn it on for his country. Like Messi, his GOAT status can be secured if the Seleção das Quinas lift the World Cup Trophy in December especially after a rough stretch with Man United.
Neymar Jr. – Brazil
Image via Getty/Michael Reaves
As one of the if not the most exciting players to watch for club and country, Neymar leads Brazil into the 2022 World Cup as the favorites to win it all. He is in the form of his life at the moment, netting goals and assists for PSG with relative ease. While the favorite for the World Cup has never won it all, he looks to add to his legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time. If you thought his Paris Saint Germain team was stacked, the Brazil squad has the talent to win it all and then some but he is undoubtedly the best player on his team and possibly the entire tournament this year. He should be an easy favorite for the Golden Boot this tournament.
Kylian Mbappe – France
Image via Getty/Ryan Pierse
With news of Karim Benzema picking up an injury just before their first group stage game, Kylian Mbappe becomes even more important for the reigning champions. They’ve suffered a handful of injuries and losing the Ballon d’Or Benz is huge but Mbappe has proven before he can carry a team with his pace, ability, and skill. The young stud has a clinical precision for goal and is considered one of the best when it comes to burying it in the net. Erling Haaland has recently taken the mantle for best young player in the world with a scorching start for Man City but with a strong run for France he can easily claim that back. It’s incredibly hard to repeat in the World Cup yet if Mbappe is in form there is no stopping his prowess on the pitch.
Harry Kane – England
Image via Getty/Michael Regan
Despite never securing a trophy in his entire footballing career for club and country, Harry Kane enters the 2022 World Cup with one of his best chances. This English national team is one of their strongest sides in quite some time and the Tottenham Spurs striker should relish many goal scoring opportunities to put on for his country. Could it be coming home? That will rely on Kane putting in the finest performances of his career with a team that continues to ascend the national team ranks. He will be extremely important for England and could challenge for the Golden Boot if they make a deeper run into the knockout stages.
Kevin De Bruyne – Belgium
Image via Getty/Dean Mouhtaropoulos
Considered the best midfielder in the game at the moment and he hasn’t even reached his peak yet. Manchester City and Belgium’s KDB is a boss on the pitch. One of the best international teams of the decade despite not winning any major trophies, his team made an epic run to the Semis in the 2018 World Cup but lost to Croatia. Expect him to control the game for his side as the best player on the team and push the Belgians forward to and deep into the knockout stages. He is a must watch talent and one of the finest players in the entire sport.
Christian Pulisic – USA
Image via Getty/Silvestre Szpylma
Captain America debuts in his first World Cup as the USMNT returns to international football after missing out on the biggest stage in 2018. At this stage in his career, Pulisic is still fighting for first team minutes with Chelsea but he knows how to make an impact in his limited time. Yet while he plays international football, Pulisic is their most important player. He’s the leader and arguably the best player that the United States has ever produced to play the beautiful game. Yes, he’s already up there with Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey. Will he add to his legacy? Team USA will need him firing on all cylinders to make a deeper run with their young squad and he’s more than capable as he suits up for the red, white and blue.
Pedri – Spain
Image via Getty/Fran Santiago
One of the game’s youngest stars suits up for one of the youngest Spanish sides the country has ever fielded for a World Cup. Arriving in Barcelona two years ago and breaking out for the club in such a short time frame, Spain’s wunderkind is oozing with talent. Despite being only 19 years old, he finds himself as his team’s most important player and one of the critical pieces to their success during this WC. Claiming both the 2021 Golden Boy and Kopa Trophy, both awarded to the best player under 21, the kid has a balled out in any competition he competes in. He will shine and continue to ascend the ranks as one of the best in the game.
Federico Valverde – Uruguay
Image via Getty/Alberto Valdez
Coming off a breakout season at Real Madrid where he’s pivoted from the midfield to the right wing for Real Madrid, it seems Fede is tapping into a new level. He’s a fixture on the reigning UCL Champs club’s starting XI and now has found himself banging screamers into the net to kick off the new season. The ever so versatile player continues to become more well-rounded with experience and will be extremely important for a true dark horse in Uruguay to win it all. Finding himself as a scorer only adds to the strong side’s chances. Look for him to break out on an international level this 2022 World Cup.
Jamal Musiala
Image via Getty
Bayern Munich’s latest phenom looks to take the international stage by storm. Musiala is only 19 years old but has tallied 22 goal contributions, 12 goals and 10 assists, in just 22 games meaning he has a huge impact for Germany’s biggest football club this season.
While the German international team is relatively experienced, the young yet gifted attacking midfielder can impact the game with just a single touch on the pitch.
He is extremely talented, slicing through opposing defense at will and will be a menace for the opposition to contain.
Wayne Rooney was not surprised by Manchester United’s decision to part company with Cristiano Ronaldo, saying the club had “no other choice”.
Ronaldo’s United departure seemed inevitable when he gave an explosive interview to Piers Morgan, saying the club had “betrayed” him and declaring he did not respect manager Erik ten Hag.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winneralso used the interview to attack several former United players who had criticised his conduct this season.
Rooney labelled Ronaldo’s actions an “unwanted distraction” after he was suspended by United for refusing to come on as a substitute in last month’s win over Tottenham, comments the Portugal forward subsequently said were rooted in jealousy.
On Tuesday, United announced Ronaldo had left the club by mutual agreement, a decision Rooney believes was inevitable.
Speaking to Sports 18 following the club’s announcement, Rooney said: “Am I surprised? No.
“There was no other choice, but that’s a shame because he’s been a fantastic servant to the club. I wish him the best wherever he goes.”
Ronaldo, 37, leaves United having scored 145 goals across two spells at Old Trafford, though he only found the net once for the Red Devils in the Premier League this campaign.
The Portugal star took aim at manager Erik ten Hag, United’s ownership under the Glazer family, and several other members of the club’s hierarchy.
“I shouldn’t say that [they were trying to get rid of me], I don’t know, but yes, I feel betrayed. I felt that some people didn’t want me here not only this year, but last year too.”
Asked about his relationship with Ten Hag, Ronaldo replied: “I don’t have respect for him because he doesn’t show respect for me.
“If you don’t have respect for me, I’m never going to have respect for you.”
After his scathing comments, Cristiano Ronaldo acknowledged a Manchester United future appears unlikely.
Meanwhile, Man Utd say “everyone at Manchester United remains focused on continuing the team’s progress under Erik ten Hag and working together to deliver success on the pitch.”
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo says he’s fit and focused on playing against Ghana on Thursday in their 2022 World Cup opener.
The 37-year-old trained with his teammates on Monday morning, having missed his side’s friendly with Nigeria last Thursday due a stomach problem.
“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 at a press conference in Doha.
“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.”
He added, “We have enormous potential, but we have to think about Ghana and take it slowly. From there, we grow. If we are the best team, we will reach the final. The champion will be the best. We have youthful players, it’s a good mix.”
“I’d love to win this tournament, but if you told me I’d never win another trophy until the end of my career, I’d be happy all the same. I’m proud of what I’ve achieved.
“But a World Cup in my career wouldn’t be bad! I’d love it and it’s a dream for me. It’s possible. Let’s see. I hope the positive energies are on our side and we can do our best,” he said.
Black Stars, who are the lowest-ranked team at the tournament have been drawn in Group H alongside Portugal, South Korea and Uruguay.
Ghana will take on Portugal in their first game on November 24 before playing South Korea and Uruguay on November 28 and December 2 respectively.
The 2022 FIFA World Cup takes place between November 20 and December 18, 2022.
Only three sides from the continent have ever progressed to the quarter-finals; Cameroon in 1990, Senegal in 2002, and Ghana in 2010.
Ghana will be hoping to progress from the group stage at this year’s tournament.
Portugal captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, has described their opening 2022 World Cup group game against Ghana as the ‘most difficult’ in the competition.
Speaking about Portugal’s chances of winning the World Cup, the 37-year-old noted that the team must focus their attention on winning their first game against Ghana, which he described as the ‘most difficult.
“I believe our national team has tremendous potential to win the World Cup. We will see. I believe we can. I have that hope, that belief, ” the Manchester United forward said.
“But like these competitions always teach us; we must think calmly. We must think and focus on the first group game. We must think about the Ghana game which is the most difficult one.
“We must start well, gain some confidence and we will go from there,” he said.
The European side will come up against the West African country on Thursday, November 24, 2022, at Stadium 974 in Doha.
Ghana will also play against South Korea and Uruguay in the group.
The Black Stars who are making their fourth appearance at the Mundial will hope to perform after exiting the group phase in Brazil in 2014.
Portugal midfielder, Ruben Neves has rubbished reports that Cristiano Ronaldo is not himself after the recent explosive interview.
According to the Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder, the football great is looking spectacular in training and ready to punish Ghana.
Speaking in a pre-match conference, Ruben Neves said if Portugal plays a good game against Ghana, Cristiano Ronaldo will be phenomenal for the national team.
“From what I’ve seen in training, he’s in spectacular shape. He doesn’t worry us at all, we as a team know perfectly well what we need to work on so that each individual stands out on gameday,” Ruben Neves said.
The highly-rated midfielder added, “If we’re good as a team, Cristiano will be phenomenal.”
The clash between Ghana and Portugal will be played on Thursday, November 24.
Both national teams are hoping to win that Group H opener to get off to a good start to increase the chance of qualifying for the knockout stage of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
After the Portugal game, the Black Stars of Ghana will prepare to take on South Korea and Uruguay.
Portugal midfielder Ruben Neves has insisted Cristiano Ronaldo is in spectacular form ahead of their opening game against Ghana.
The Black Stars who are returning to the global showpiece after missing out in Russia 2018 has been housed in Group H against Portugal, Uruguay and South Korea.
Ghana will open their campaign with a clash against former European champions Portugal before taking on South Korea and Uruguay in subsequent games.
According to Neves, Ronaldo looks like his old self and has therefore warned the Black Stars to be warry of the 37-year-old.
“From what I’ve seen in training, he’s in spectacular shape,” Neves told a news conference in tournament host Qatar on Sunday. “He doesn’t worry us at all, we as a team know perfectly well what we need to work on so that each individual stands out on game day.”
“If we’re good as a team, Cristiano will be phenomenal.”
Neves also says the legendary footballer’s interview that has dominated headlines recently has no effect on the Seleçao ahead of their World Cup campaign.
Ronaldo has been the most talked about footballer in recent days after an astonishing interview with TalkTV presenter Piers Morgan, with series of remarkable claims about Manchester United causing a lot of stir.
However, midfielder Neves insists the interview has not distracted Portugal’s preparations towards the World Cup in Qata
“Sure, it’s impossible for us to walk around without been asked about the controversy, but I don’t think there’s any controversy at all between us in the changing room,” added 25-year-old Neves. “We have a spectacular environment right here.”
After missing Thursday’s friendly against Nigeria in Lisbon due to a stomach problem, the former Real Madrid has trained with the group and look set for the Ghana clash.
Cristiano Ronaldo hopes he can be the man to “checkmate” Lionel Messi at Qatar 2022, but he does not believe a World Cup win for Portugal would end football’s ‘GOAT’ debate.
Ronaldo and Messi are the sport’s two modern greats, with supporters of each player claiming them to be the best of all time.
However, despite European Championship success for Portugal and last year’s Argentina triumph in the Copa America, neither have won the greatest team prize of all.
Ronaldo has endured a difficult season at Manchester United, yet he has arrived in Qatar in confident mood, even if he does not believe he has anything to prove.
“Even if I won the World Cup, there would be this debate,” he said on Monday. “It’s like in everything, there are some who like blondes more, others more brunettes…
“I’m an ambitious player; I’d love to win this competition, but if I don’t win, I’d still be happy with everything I’ve done so far.
“If they told me that I won’t win a title again, I’d be proud of what I’ve done.
“[Winning the World Cup] was a dream for me; it’s possible, but we’ll see. I hope all energies are on our side.”
Boas energias, boas sensações, o mesmo empenho e a mesma concentração de que colocamos em cada desafio. Foco! Vontade! Crença! Seja onde for, Portugal, sempre!🇵🇹🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/tWgeKBRG3J
Ronaldo and Messi are long-time rivals, but they posed together for a game of chess in a Louis Vuitton advertising campaign ahead of the finals.
Were Portugal and Argentina each to win their groups, the pair would not meet on the pitch until the December 18 final.
“It was a campaign that I’ve been doing, which I’ve wanted for many years,” Ronaldo said of the ad. “I’ve fulfilled the dream of being able to do it; everyone knows the greatness of the brand.
“It will be my fifth World Cup. I’m focused and extremely optimistic that things will go well.
“Checkmate we do in life, it’s not just in chess. And I do it often.
“I don’t know how to be direct about it, but I’d like to be the one to do the checkmate against him [Messi]. It would be beautiful to happen; it already happened in a chess game and in football it would be even more [beautiful].”
Ronaldo and Messi have met only twice at international level, with Portugal and Argentina winning one friendly apiece.
Cristiano Ronaldo is motivated by the millions of people who look up to him ahead of the World Cup, as he dismissed criticism of his interview with Piers Morgan.
The conversation with Morgan, broadcast on TalkTV, aired in full last week, with Ronaldo seemingly doing his utmost to bring his second spell at Manchester United to an end.
Among a wide range of topics, Ronaldo discussed how he felt “betrayed” by the club and how he did not respect manager Erik ten Hag – he even aimed a swipe at former team-mate Wayne Rooney.
Ronaldo is seemingly heading for a January exit, though for now his focus is on leading Portugal in Qatar. Their campaign in the gulf nation starts on Thursday against Ghana.
Iker Casillas came to his old Real Madrid club-mate’s defence on Sunday, telling Marca he would always like to have the 37-year-old on his team and that he is a contender to win the Golden Boot in Qatar, suggesting critics too easily forget Ronaldo’s achievements.
In a press conference at Portugal’s training base on Monday, Ronaldo said: “I agree with Casillas and I hope to demonstrate that we are eliminating that small range of criticism.
“There are millions of people who like me. That is what motivates me. There is no money to pay for that. The joy of the children.
“Timing is always timing. From your side it is easy to look at how we can choose timings. Sometimes you write truths, sometimes you write lies.
“I don’t have to worry what others think. I talk when I want to. Staff, players, everyone knows me, they know what I think, they’ve known me since I was 11, they won’t be influenced by what [the critics] say.”
Boas energias, boas sensações, o mesmo empenho e a mesma concentração de que colocamos em cada desafio. Foco! Vontade! Crença! Seja onde for, Portugal, sempre!🇵🇹🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/tWgeKBRG3J
Ronaldo, who is sure his interview will not derail Portugal’s chances of success, also hit out at the media for asking his national team-mates to discuss his situation, after Ruben Neves’ press conference on Sunday was dominated by the topic.
“Please, don’t ask players about me. Ask about the World Cup, I’m bulletproof, I have an armoured mind,” he said.
“I have no doubt that this recent episode, that interview, and other episodes with other players that happen sometimes, can sometimes shake the player but won’t shake the team.
“Everyone really wants this competition, everyone wants to play, which is something I like to see, the ambition is very high.”
Ronaldo also explained that frosty exchanges with Bruno Fernandes and Joao Cancelo were simply jokes.
“I made a joke with Bruno, with whom I have an excellent relationship,” Ronaldo added.
“His flight was delayed and I asked if he had come by boat. It was a joke, as it was with Joao Cancelo.”
Cristiano Ronaldo’s criticism of young players is understandable, according to his Manchester United team-mate Anthony Elanga, who has defended the forward following his comments.
Ronaldo has endured a torrid season after reportedly asking to leave United in the last transfer window, and his future is in doubt once again following an explosive interview with Piers Morgan.
As well as claiming senior figures at Old Trafford have “betrayed” him and admitting he has no respect for head coach Erik ten Hag, Ronaldo said the club’s young players “don’t care”.
Asked about Ronaldo’s comments by Swedish publication Aftonbladet, Elanga said: “Cristiano talks about young players in general.
“We are a new generation. I am always 100 per cent focused on what I am doing, but I can understand what he is saying.
“There are a lot of phones and a lot of technology. It’s quite easy for young players to get distracted and lose focus. Young players at United are listening, but I can understand what he is saying.”
Elanga also maintains that Ronaldo has been a positive influence on his development since the five-time Ballon d’Or winner returned to United last August.
“He has helped me a lot not only on the pitch, but off it as well,” Elanga said. “He is an inspiration, not only to me but to all the young players at United. Sometimes it’s just me and him at the gym.
“When I’m with him, he hasn’t changed. He is still Cristiano Ronaldo to me. He has helped me a lot.”
Cristiano Ronaldo acknowledged a Manchester United future appears unlikely after his scathing interview, though he rubbished earlier reports of a move away as “garbage”.
Five-time Ballon d’Or winner has caused a stir at Old Trafford after hitting out at the club’s senior figures, current manager Erik ten Hag and former boss Ralf Rangnick.
In a wide-ranging interview with Piers Morgan on Talk TV, the Portugal international said he felt “betrayed” by United and claimed the club had made “zero progress” since Alex Ferguson left in 2013.
Amid a host of other complaints, Ronaldo suggested he may no longer be a United player after the World Cup break with Portugal, who open their Group H campaign against Ghana in Qatar next Thursday.
“It’s hard, it’s hard for me to say that I will not be back to Manchester United. But regardless, let’s see what’s going to happen,” the 37-year-old said.
“It’s difficult to tell right now, because my mood is right now to the World Cup. It’s probably my last World Cup, of course, my fifth World Cup.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen after the World Cup, but as I told you before, and I will say again, the fans will be always in my heart.
“I hope that they never forget the things that I will continue to do it. Not only in the past, but in the present too. Manchester will be always in my side, the fans will be always on my side.
“It doesn’t matter what’s going to happen. When I arrived at Manchester United, I am always available to help the team to do good things, to put them in the right spots to compete with the best teams.
“But it’s hard when they cut your legs and don’t like you to shine and don’t listen to your advice.
“I think I have words to advise the club because the trophies are one individual and collective. I think I can help a lot, but the infrastructure is not good.”
Ongoing reports linked the unsettled Ronaldo with the likes of Chelsea, Juventus and Atletico Madrid among a plethora of Europe’s elite clubs.
Former side Sporting CP were another name touted, alongside Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, though the ex-Real Madrid attacker refuted numerous reports.
“What they say the last three months is complete garbage and wrong,” he added. “They say that they offer me this and that, and many presidents and directors speak about, they reject me.
“It’s a complete lie, they lie. Because this is not what’s happened. I have a few clubs that they want me to sign and I didn’t go because I feel comfortable here.
“I was motivated to do a great season here. But they continue to repeat that nobody wants Cristiano. How don’t they want a player who scored 32 goals last year, with the national team?”
While Ronaldo took aim at the speculation and his current employers United, the forward insisted he has no doubts over his capabilities.
He continued: “For me, it’s a stupid question. What do people say? They are not the same. Nobody is the same, day-by-day we’re getting old. Every one of us, it is normal. You have to adapt.
“And I think nobody in this game has this brain that adapts to his age. I’m not wanting to be cocky to say that I’m the same as when I was 20. Of course, no.
“I adapt and be smart to know my strength, what I’m good at. I’m still playing a high level and I score goals, and I will continue to score goals.
“If my mind is clear and happy. And if the people surround me, they’re helping me to be a successful player, especially the coach, the president, the directors…
“But when you feel that the energy around you won’t help, it’s difficult for you to be yourself, which is what has happened with me.”
Cristiano Ronaldo remains optimistic about Portugal’s chances at the World Cup in Qatar, who he thinks will host a “good tournament” despite ongoing human rights concerns.
Portugal captain Ronaldo missed Fernando Santos’ side cruise past Nigeria 4-0 in their final warm-up game on Thursday before FIFA’s global tournament.
Coach Santos cited illness issues for the 37-year-old amid the furore of his scathing interview on Manchester United with Piers Morgan on TalkTV.
While the former Real Madrid forward hit out at United, their staff and directors, Ronaldo suggested Portugal have a chance at the World Cup, where they face Ghana in their Group H opener next Thursday.
“I am very optimistic. We have a fantastic coach, we have a good generation of football players,” the five-time Ballon d’Or winner said.
“I’m looking forward to it, we’re going to an amazing World Cup… [It’s] going to be tough. Extremely difficult. But everything is possible, of course we’re going to compete.”
After labelling a host of pre-tournament favourites, such as Argentina, Spain and Brazil, Ronaldo said he would retire immediately if Portugal won the tournament.
The United forward believes England also have a “chance” in Qatar, who came under widespread scrutiny for their human rights treatment after being awarded hosting rights by FIFA.
Captains of 10 European sides will wear heart-adorned armbands, raising awareness for the OneLove campaign against discrimination in a country where same-sex relationships are prohibited.
FIFA has repeatedly called for nations to focus on football, much to the disappointment of many supporters and countries, though Ronaldo feels Qatar will prove a capable host.
“All the national teams, the people will be welcomed in Qatar, and I see a good tournament to be honest,” he added.
“I think Qatar; they are prepared. They are prepared for that [the backlash].
“It will be weird to play at the beginning of the season. But in the same way, it is a challenge. I think it’s good. I feel good and with good energy.”
Cristiano Ronaldo remains optimistic about Portugal’s chances at the World Cup in Qatar, who he thinks will host a “good tournament” despite ongoing human rights concerns.
Portugal captain Ronaldo missed Fernando Santos’ side cruise past Nigeria 4-0 in their final warm-up game on Thursday before FIFA’s global tournament.
Coach Santos cited illness issues for the 37-year-old amid the furore of his scathing interview on Manchester United with Piers Morgan on TalkTV.
While the former Real Madrid forward hit out at United, their staff and directors, Ronaldo suggested Portugal have a chance at the World Cup, where they face Ghana in their Group H opener next Thursday.
“I am very optimistic. We have a fantastic coach, we have a good generation of football players,” the five-time Ballon d’Or winner said.
“I’m looking forward to it, we’re going to an amazing World Cup… [It’s] going to be tough. Extremely difficult. But everything is possible, of course we’re going to compete.”
After labelling a host of pre-tournament favourites, such as Argentina, Spain and Brazil, Ronaldo said he would retire immediately if Portugal won the tournament.
The United forward believes England also have a “chance” in Qatar, who came under widespread scrutiny for their human rights treatment after being awarded hosting rights by FIFA.
Captains of 10 European sides will wear heart-adorned armbands, raising awareness for the OneLove campaign against discrimination in a country where same-sex relationships are prohibited.
FIFA has repeatedly called for nations to focus on football, much to the disappointment of many supporters and countries, though Ronaldo feels Qatar will prove a capable host.
“All the national teams, the people will be welcomed in Qatar, and I see a good tournament to be honest,” he added.
“I think Qatar; they are prepared. They are prepared for that [the backlash].
“It will be weird to play at the beginning of the season. But in the same way, it is a challenge. I think it’s good. I feel good and with good energy.”
Cristiano Ronaldodreams of facing the “magic” Lionel Messiin the World Cup final as two footballing greats head into the twilight of their careers.
The 37-year-old Ronaldo will hope to help Portugal escape Group H, where they face Ghana next Thursday before clashes against Uruguay and South Korea.
Messi, 35, heads to Qatar with one of the pre-tournament favourites, Argentina, who start Group C against Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, with meetings against Mexico and Poland to follow.
Having battled for centre stage against former Barcelona star Messi for numerous years, ex-Real Madrid forward Ronaldo admitted he would love to face his old foe in the World Cup showpiece on December 18.
“It’s too good, too good of a dream,” Ronaldo told Piers Morgan on TalkTV in his wide-ranging interview, in which he criticised Manchester United, senior figures at Old Trafford, Erik ten Hag and Ralf Rangnick.
Lionel Messi vs. Cristiano Ronaldo: The Final World Cup Face/Off ⚔️
Two of the greatest players of this generation, and neither one has won the FIFA World Cup.
We look ahead to what will surely be their final battle at the World Cup.
The pair share 12 Ballon d’Or titles between them, with Messi’s record-breaking seven two more than Ronaldo’s haul, surmising a dominant period in elite football between the evergreen duo.
Messi now plays his club football with Paris Saint-Germain, while Ronaldo’s time at United appears to be heading to an abrupt end amid the furore of his scathing interview on his current employers.
The Portugal international, despite the revered battles between the pair throughout their respective careers, assured he has a “great relationship” with Messi, who he would like to sit down for a meal with.
“He is an amazing player, he is magic. As a person, he is top. We shared the stage for 16 years, imagine,” he added.
“I have a great relationship with him. I’m not a friend of him in terms of the guy who is at your house, speaking on the phone, no, but he is like a team-mate.
“He’s a guy that I really respect the way he always speaks about me. Even his wife or my wife, my girlfriend, they always respect and they’re both from Argentina.
“What I am going to say about Messi? A great guy who does great things for football.”
Blaugrana legend Messi has been linked with a move to Major League Soccer or a fairytale reunion with Barca, who he left amid well-documented financial difficulties at Camp Nou in August 2021.
The future of Ronaldo appears unlikely to remain with United, though he suggested he would like to call an end to his playing career aged 40.
“I want to play two years more, three years more. So two or three years maximum,” he continued.
“I want to finish at 40. I think 40, will be a good age… But I don’t know, I don’t know the future.
“Sometimes you plan one thing for your life and as have said many times, life is dynamic. You never know what’s going to happen.”
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have defined a generation of football – but this is likely to be their final chance to win a World Cup.
The pair have won it all at club level but have just one major continental trophy each for Argentina and Portugal respectively.
They are two of the icons facing the prospect of their final World Cup in Qatar this winter.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
You can never rule anything out with Ronaldo but the fact he will be 41 by the time of the next World Cup means it’s likely this will be his last.
In September he said he would not be retiring after Qatar and hoped to play for Portugal “for a few more years” – so who knows?
His club future is also uncertain at the moment, following an interview containing criticisms of Manchester United.
He already has the big individual European Championship records – most tournaments played, most games, most goals – as well as winning Euro 2016. He is also the top-scoring player in men’s international football with 117 goals – including an iconic hat-trick in the last World Cup against Spain.
The 37-year-old forward is one of football’s greats with exactly 700 club goals, more than 30 trophies and five Ballon d’Or titles. But this is surely the last chance to add ‘World Cup winner’ to that incredible CV.
Lionel Messi (Argentina)
We could in truth simply copy and paste a lot of the Ronaldo section for Lionel Messi, who will turn 39 during the next World Cup.
Arguably the greatest player of all time, with 695 goals for Barcelona and Paris St-Germain and a record seven Ballons d’Or, Messi finally won the Copa America at the most recent attempt.
But glory in Qatar would finally put the 35-year-old up there with Pele and Diego Maradona for those who hold winning the World Cup as a benchmark for ‘all-time greatest’ status.
Messi comes into the World Cup in some of his best form in recent years, with 11 goals and 14 assists in 18 games for PSG.
He recently said this will “surely” be his final World Cup but nothing has been confirmed yet. And he has retired from Argentina duty in the past before coming back.
Robert Lewandowski (Poland)
Robert Lewandowski failed to score in his maiden World Cup
Robert Lewandowski is heading into only his second World Cup – and it is likely to be last.
The 34-year-old striker – who has scored 18 goals in 19 games for new club Barcelona – failed to score four (and a half) years ago in Russia during Poland’s three group games.
The Bayern Munich legend has enjoyed success at the European Championship, with five goals in 11 games, but this feels like being his last chance to score at a World Cup.
Neymar (Brazil)
Neymar, at 30, is the youngest player in this list but he has already said this could be his last World Cup.
“I think it’s my last World Cup,” he said last year. “I don’t know if I have the strength of mind to deal with football anymore.” He later claimed his quotes had been misinterpreted.
Neymar – who has scored 13 goals and assisted another 11 for PSG this season – will likely leave behind a legacy of ‘what if’ should he quit football soon.
He is one of the most talented footballers of his generation and has scored 75 international goals. But he has played in France with Paris St-Germain for almost all of his peak years – and only featured in about half their league games.
Luis Suarez (Uruguay)
Suarez is 35, so – like his former Barcelona team-mates Messi and Neymar – this could be the end of his World Cup adventures.
The former Liverpool, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid striker is a free agent, having recently returned to his first club, Nacional, and won the Uruguayan title.
He is most likely to be remembered for being sent off for a handball on the line that denied Ghana a place in the 2010 World Cup semi-final and then biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini at the 2014 tournament.
He is not the only Uruguay icon nearing the end of his international career – with Valencia striker Edinson Cavani, 35, and Velez Sarsfield defender Diego Godin, 36, also in the squad.
Luka Modric (Croatia)
Real Madrid midfielder Modric is 37 and this will be his eighth major tournament for Croatia. Reports suggest he will retire from international football after the World Cup – although his manager recently claimed he will play on.
He played a key role in helping his country to the 2018 World Cup final, where they lost to France.
He won the Golden Ball award for the tournament’s best player – and the Ballon d’Or.
Karim Benzema (France)
Real Madrid striker Benzema will turn 35 the day after the World Cup final.
He comes into the tournament having won the 2022 Ballon d’Or after scoring 44 goals in 46 games, although he has only netted five times this season.
This will be his second World Cup, having previously played in 2014. He was left out in 2010 while 2018 fell during his near-six-year exile from the national team for his part in a sex tape blackmail case.
Gareth Bale (Wales)
Gareth Bale scored the goal to book Wales’ place in the World Cup in their play-off final against Ukraine
Wales legend Bale is heading into his first World Cup – and it could also be his last.
The 33-year-old has said he does not plan to retire after Qatar but he will be 37 in the summer of the next World Cup.
Bale joined Los Angeles FC in the summer after his Real Madrid contract expired – and helped them to win the MLS Cup. There were suggestions he may have chosen to retire had Wales lost in the play-offs.
Manuel Neuer (Germany)
Bayern Munich and Germany’s Neuer has been one of the best goalkeepers of his generation.
He won the 2014 World Cup and was named in the team of the tournament.
Neuer will be 40 by the time of the next World Cup in 2026… although six goalkeepers have played at the tournament past that age, so it is possible he could make it.
Sergio Busquets (Spain)
Busquets has been one of the great holding midfielders of the past 20 years – enabling some of his legendary Barcelona and Spain team-mates to do their stuff going forward.
But he is 34 and his legs and influence are not what they once were.
It is hard to see the 2010 World Cup winner featuring again in four years’ time.
Cristiano Ronaldosays his “absolute focus” will be on Portugal at the World Cup amid the furore of his scathing interview on Manchester United.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner criticised United manager Erik ten Hag, Ralf Rangnick and senior figures at Old Trafford in an interview with Piers Morgan for TalkTV, which will be released in full on Wednesday.
Ronaldosaid he felt “betrayed” by United and claimed no progress had been made by the club since Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013.
United subsequently responded with a statement on Monday noting the interview and vowed to reply “after the full facts have been established”.
The 37-year-old on Monday stated his focus will be fully on playing for Portugal in Qatar ahead of their Group H opener against Ghana on November 24.
“Total and absolute focus on national team work. United group, towards one objective: realise the dream of all Portuguese people!,” he posted on Instagram.
His post a picture of himself with Portugal team-mates at training despite missing United’s past two matches due to “illness”.
The Red Devils beat Fulham 2-1 without Ronaldo on Sunday and are fifth in the Premier League, three points behind Tottenham with a game in hand.
Portugal captain Ronaldo will hope to help his country to World Cup glory in the Middle East, where Fernando Santos’ side will also face Uruguay and South Korea.
Cristiano Ronaldo alleged some members of Manchester United’s hierarchy did not believe his reasoning for missing pre-season when his daughter was in hospital.
Ronaldo has hit out at United in a wide-ranging interview with Piers Morgan for TalkTV, which will be released in full on Wednesday, criticising manager Erik ten Hag, former boss Ralf Rangnick and the club.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner insisted Alex Ferguson convinced him to re-sign at Old Trafford but suggested “zero progress” has been made since the legendary Scot left in 2013.
United issued a statement saying a response would follow once the interview, in which Ronaldo stated he felt “betrayed” by the club, was released in full.
In a new clip released on Monday, Ronaldo claimed two senior members at United doubted his daughter, Bella, was sick with bronchitis just three months after her twin brother had died.
“I spoke with the director and the president of Man Utd and they kind of didn’t believe that something was going wrong, which made me feel bad,” the Portugal captain said.
The forward missed United’s pre-season tour of Thailand and Australia after being granted additional time off by Ten Hag.
When pressed to confirm senior United figures did not believe he was telling the truth, Ronaldo added: “They believe me but in the same way [shakes head]…
“I am never going to change the health of my family for a football. Now, or 10 years behind or forward.
“And it is something that really hurt me because they doubted my word that I was struggling, especially Bella and Geo [Georgina Rodriguez, Ronaldo’s girlfriend].
“We had one week in hospital because Bella had a big problem and I didn’t go to the pre-season because of that.
“I didn’t want to leave my family to do the pre-season because I didn’t think it was fair to leave my family for a pre-season. This is why I didn’t go.”
Ronaldo stated in an Instagram post on Monday that his full focus is on achieving World Cup glory with Portugal, who face Ghana on November 24 in their Group H opener.
Cristiano Ronaldobelieves that the Manchester United owners “don’t care about the club” and feels the fans “should know the truth”.
In an interview set to be broadcast fully on Wednesday, the Portuguese forward criticised manager Erik ten Hag and former boss Ralf Rangnick, while also stating he feels “betrayed” by the club.
Ronaldo has now aimed his sights higher up the hierarchy at Old Trafford, accusing the American owners of holding no interest in how the club performs on the field.
“The owners of the club, the Glazers, they don’t care about the club. The sports, they don’t really care in my opinion,” he told Piers Morgan Uncensored.
“I’ve never spoken to them. They give all the power to the sporting director.
“The fans are always right, they should know the truth. The players, we want the best for the club, I want the best for the club, this is why I came back to Manchester United, it is why I love the club.
“But you have some things inside the club which don’t help you reach the top level like [Manchester] City, Liverpool, even now Arsenal, for example, which is difficult.
“It’s hard. In my opinion, it will be hard for United to be at the top of the game in the next two or three years.”
Ronaldo also hit back at former teammates Wayne Rooney and Gary Neville, both of whom have been critical of him this season, and accused them of using his name to gain fame in their post playing careers.
“They are not my friends. I don’t know if they have a job on television where they must criticise me to become more famous, I really don’t understand,” he added.
“I think they take advantage of that because they’re not stupid. I have to carry on with my life with criticism or praise but it’s hard when you see people who were in the dressing room with you, criticising you in that way.
“I’m not going to lose sleep because they criticise but it’s not good to listen to that. It’s a little bit disappointing.”
Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo says he feels “betrayed” by the club, does not respect manager Erik ten Hag and is being forced out.
Ronaldo, 37, promised in August he would give his version of life at Old Trafford after failing to secure a move to a club playing in the Champions League, as he had hoped.
He has now spoken out in an interview with Piers Morgan for TalkTV.
A Manchester United statement said the club had “noted the media coverage”.
In extracts from the wide-ranging interview –
Ronaldo said:
People at the club were trying to force him out.
There had been “no evolution” at the club since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013, and the Scot agreed United were “not on the path they deserve to be”.
The club showed a lack of “empathy” when his young daughter was hospitalised in July.
He had “never heard” of previous manager Ralf Rangnick.
He did not know why former team-mate Wayne Rooney criticised him, adding: “Probably because he finished his career and I’m still playing.”
The interview will be shown over two nights on Wednesday and Thursday.
Asked by Morgan if United’s hierarchy were trying to force him out, Ronaldo said: “Yes, not only the coach, but another two or three guys around the club. I felt betrayed.”
Pushed as to whether senior club executives were trying to oust him, he added: “People should listen to the truth. Yes, I felt betrayed and I felt like some people don’t want me here, not only this year but last year too.”
The Red Devils, who beat Fulham 2-1 on Sunday, are fifth in the Premier League in Ten Hag’s first season as manager.
“The club will consider its response after the full facts have been established,” United said in a statement on Monday.
“Our focus remains on preparing for the second half of the season and continuing the momentum, belief and togetherness being built among the players, manager, staff and fans.
Ronaldo says he has no ‘respect’ for Ten Hag
Ronaldo has not played because of an unspecified illness since he captained United in their 3-1 defeat at Aston Villa on 6 November.
He was dropped for the Premier League game at Chelsea last month by Ten Hag after refusing to come on as a substitute against Tottenham three days earlier.
“I don’t have respect for him because he doesn’t show respect for me,” Ronaldo said. “If you don’t have respect for me, I’m never gonna have respect for you.”
Ronaldo also spoke about the loss of his baby son in April and how touched he was by a tribute paid to him by Liverpool fans at a game against United at Anfield in the days afterwards.
The whole interview is 90 minutes long but Morgan has written a version for the Sun in which it is clear the contempt Ronaldo has for how he has found United since he returned to the club amid huge fanfare in August 2021.
“I think the fans should know the truth,” he said. “I want the best for the club. This is why I come to Manchester United.”
Ronaldo said he had seen “no evolution” at the club since former manager Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013.
“Nothing had changed,” he said. “I love Manchester United. I love the fans, they’re always on my side. But if they want to do it different… they have to change many, many things.”
Ronaldo said his view of the club was shared by Ferguson, who was pivotal in his return to Old Trafford from Juventus when it appeared he might join Manchester City.
“He knows better than anybody that the club is not on the path they deserve to be,” added Ronaldo.
“He knows. Everyone knows. The people who don’t see that… it’s because they don’t want to see; they are blind.”
In a 90-minute interview conducted by Piers Morgan, due to be released fully on Wednesday, Ronaldo issued scathing criticism upon the club, Erik ten Hag and former caretaker boss Ralf Rangnick.
The 37-year-old declared he had “no respect” for Ten Hag and had “never heard of” his predecessor Rangnick, while claiming no progress had been made by the club since Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013.
Ronaldo’s comments come ahead of the World Cup in Qatar, with United not in Premier League action again until Boxing Day, and they will take their time to decide the appropriate action.
The statement read: “Manchester United notes the media coverage regarding an interview by Cristiano Ronaldo.
“The club will consider its response after the full facts have been established.
“Our focus remains on preparing for the second half of the season and continuing the momentum, belief and togetherness being built among the players, manager, staff, and fans.”
Ronaldo has made 16 appearances across all competitions for United this season, 10 of which have been as a starter, scoring three goals and registering two assists.
However, he has netted just once in the Premier League this season, coming off the bench against Everton on October 9 to score the winner in a 2-1 victory.
Cristiano Ronaldo has suggested Wayne Rooney’s criticism of his behaviour at Manchester United is rooted in jealousy.
Ronaldo has been the subject of a great deal of scrutiny this season, having pushed for a move away from United ahead of the August kick-off.
After staying at Old Trafford, the United great fell out of favour under new manager Erik ten Hag and was widely criticised for refusing to appear as a substitute against Tottenham.
Ronaldo stormed down the tunnel during that match and was subsequently suspended for United’s next game.
Ten Hag has reintegrated Ronaldo, but his role remains the subject of debate, with former strike partner Rooney weighing in this week.
While some of Ronaldo’s other team-mates have defended him, Rooney said the 37-year-old’s behaviour was “not acceptable” and an “unwanted distraction”.
Now, in a wide-ranging interview with Piers Morgan Uncensored, Ronaldo has responded.
“I don’t know why he criticises me so badly,” he said in an interview that will be broadcast in full next week.
“Probably because he finished his career and I’m still playing at a high level.
“I’m not going to say that I’m looking better than him – which is true…”
Ronaldo joined United for the first time in 2003, a year before Rooney was signed from Everton, and the pair won the 2007-08 Champions League together.
While Ronaldo will be heading to the World Cup with Portugal, Rooney – England’s record goalscorer – is preparing for his first full season in charge of MLS side D.C. United.
As well as poking fun at Rooney, Ronaldo used his interview as a platform to discuss how he has been “betrayed” by United, adding he does not respect Ten Hag.
Ronaldo, 37, promised in August he would give his version of life at Old Trafford after failing to secure a move to a club playing in the Champions League, as he had hoped.
He has now spoken out in an interview with Piers Morgan for TalkTV.
United have been asked for a response to the Portugal international’s claims.
In extracts from the wide-ranging interview – published in the Sun, Ronaldo said:
People at the club were trying to force him out.
There had been “no evolution” at the club since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013, and the Scot agreed United were “not on the path they deserve to be”.
The club showed a lack of “empathy” when his young daughter was hospitalised in July.
He had “never heard” of previous manager Ralf Rangnick.
He did not know why former team-mate Wayne Rooney criticised him, adding: “Probably because he finished his career and I’m still playing”.
The interview will be shown over two nights on Wednesday and Thursday.
Asked by Morgan if United’s hierarchy were trying to force him out, Ronaldo said: “Yes, not only the coach, but another two or three guys around the club. I felt betrayed.”
Pushed as to whether senior club executives were trying to oust him, he added: “People should listen to the truth. Yes, I felt betrayed and I felt like some people don’t want me here, not only this year but last year too.”
The Red Devils, who beat Fulham 2-1 on Sunday, are fifth in the Premier League in Ten Hag’s first season as manager.
He was dropped for the Premier League game at Chelsea last month by Ten Hag after refusing to come on as a substitute against Tottenham three days earlier.
“I don’t have respect for him because he doesn’t show respect for me,” Ronaldo said. “If you don’t have respect for me, I’m never gonna have respect for you.”
Ronaldo also spoke about the loss of his baby son in April and how touched he was by a tribute paid to him by Liverpool fans at a game against United at Anfield in the days afterwards.
The whole interview is 90 minutes long but Morgan has written a version for the Sun in which it is clear the contempt Ronaldo has for how he has found United since he returned to the club amid huge fanfare in August 2021.
“I think the fans should know the truth,” he said. “I want the best for the club. This is why I come to Manchester United.”
Ronaldo said he had seen “no evolution” at the club since former manager Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013.
“Nothing had changed,” he said. “I love Manchester United. I love the fans, they’re always on my side. But if they want to do it different… they have to change many, many things.”
Ronaldo said his view of the club was shared by Ferguson, who was pivotal in his return to Old Trafford from Juventus when it appeared he might join Manchester City.
“He knows better than anybody that the club is not on the path they deserve to be,” added Ronaldo.
“He knows. Everyone knows. The people who don’t see that… it’s because they don’t want to see; they are blind.”
Ronaldo’s former team-mate Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was United manager when the Portuguese returned to the club before he was succeeded by Ralf Rangnick and then Ten Hag.
Rangnick left his role as head of sports and development at Lokomotiv Moscow to take up the job. He had previously built his reputation during his time in Germany, with Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp and former Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel speaking highly about their compatriot.
On Rangnick, Ronaldo said: “If you’re not even a coach, how are you going to be the boss of Manchester United? I’d never even heard of him.”
“I don’t know why he criticises me so badly… probably because he finished his career and I’m still playing at a high level,” said Ronaldo.
“I’m not going to say that I’m looking better than him. Which is true…”
‘An interview that is his version of the truth’ – reaction
Match of the Day 2 pundits Jermaine Jenas and Jermain Defoe both criticised Ronaldo for his comments.
“We have seen nothing but petulance throughout the season, with the walking down the tunnel,” Jenas said.
“He’s a frustrated player, whether he feels like he’s been lied to or what, today just doesn’t feel right to me. It’s not going to help him and he has to be done at the club.”
Defoe added: “I think it’s quite disappointing to be honest, he has nothing to prove so I can’t understand why he would want to put his point across. Maybe his ego is dented a little bit.”
Former England defender and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carraghersaid the majority of United fans would side with Ten Hag.
“Ronaldo under ETH: Announced he wanted to leave, refused to come on as a substitute, walked off the bench and left before the game had finished,” he posted on Twitter.
“99% of United fans will be on the side of ETH, which shows how badly Ronaldo has handled this.”
Andy Mitten, editor of United We Stand magazine, told BBC Radio 5 Live: “He’s not been forced out. He wanted to leave in the summer and thought he was leaving, but there was a shortage of suitors.
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