World Cup 2022

Cristiano Ronaldo says row with Manchester United will not ‘shake’
Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo says he will “speak when he wants” and his row with Manchester United
will not “shake” his Portugal team at the World Cup.
United are exploring their legal options as they look to end Ronaldo’s time at the club
following his critical interview with TalkTV.
Ronaldo, 37, said he felt “betrayed by the club” and stated he had “no respect” for manager
Erik ten Hag.
“In my life, the best timing is always my timing,” Ronaldo said on Monday.
Making a surprise appearance at a news conference, the Portugal captain said: “I don’t have
to think about what other people think. I speak when I want. The players know me really well
for many years and know the type of person I am.
“It’s an ambitious group that is hungry and focused. So I’m sure it [the interview] won’t
shake the changing room’s concentration and focus.”
Five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo will lead Portugal into their opening Group H game
against Ghana on Thursday.
He has just over seven months remaining on his £500,000-a-week contract at Old Trafford
but United could terminate the forward’s contract, which would leave him free to sign for
another club when the transfer window opens in January.
He has not played because of an unspecified illness since he captained United in their 3-1
defeat at Aston Villa on 6 November, but he says he feels in shape for what will be his fifth
World Cup.
“I’m feeling great, I’m recovered and I’m training well and ready to start the World Cup in
the best way possible,” said Ronaldo.
“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.”