Cristiano Ronaldo was absent from Portugal’s friendly match tonight against Nigeria, through illness.
Portugal won the game 4-0 with Manchester United teammate Bruno Fernandes scoring twice, in the 45 minutes he played.
Fernandes was predictably asked about Ronaldo by the press after the game.
Just tonight the second half of Ronaldo’s controversial interview aired on TalkTV.
Bruno Fernandes gives blunt response
Bruno Fernandes did not want to be drawn on the Cristiano Ronaldo situation when quizzed after the match.
He told reporters this was a topic which should only be discussed after the World Cup, which begins on Sunday.
Fernandes was quoted by MaisFutebol: “I’m just talking about the team. Here is the team and World Cup, Manchester will be after the World Cup, God willing will be after the 18th (World Cup final).
“We’re focused on the World Cup.”
This was the correct way for Ronaldo to address the situation. He does not hide from the fact there is an issue to be talked about – but is right that this is not the time to discuss it.
In any case, decisions over Ronaldo are not in Fernandes’ hands. This is a dilemma for the Manchester United hierarchy to resolve.
Ronaldo spoke in his interview about his reason for his struggles at United this season – he cited a lack of motivation.
This won’t be a factor at the World Cup, but it has to be noted that Ronaldo’s two goal display for his country was yet another game in which he shone without Ronaldo.
Whether manager Fernando Santos can get them playing well together, will be key to their chances of success.
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