The Portuguese FA has now released a statement after rife speculation suggested that Cristiano Ronaldo had threatened to leave the 2022 FIFA World Cup after being dropped to the bench.
Following rumours that Ronaldo told Santos of his plans to leave the training camp after he was benched for the team's the round of 16 tie against Switzerland, the European side has now dismissed these claims ahead of their crucial quarter-final encounter against Morocco on Saturday.
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“News released this Thursday reports that Cristiano Ronaldo threatened to leave the national team during a conversation with Fernando Santos, national coach,” the statement read.
“The FPF clarifies that at no time did the captain of the National Team, Cristiano Ronaldo, threaten to leave the national team during the internship in Qatar.
“Cristiano Ronaldo builds up a unique track record every day at the service of the national team and the country, which must be respected and which attests to the unquestionable degree of commitment to the national team.
“Incidentally, 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.
“The National Team – players, coaches and FPF structure – is, as it has been since the first day, fully committed and enthusiastic in building what the Country wants to be Portugal’s best ever participation in a World Cup.”
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It was also recently reported that Ronaldo had not trained with the players who were substitutes and those who didn't play against the Swiss, as expected. Instead, the 37-year-old participated in a recovery session meant for only those who started in Tuesday's 6-1 mauling of their opponents.
Reports now suggest that it is likely the skipper will start on the bench again against Morocco, given his replacement Goncalo Ramos netted a hat-trick earlier this week.
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