FIFA WORLD CUP: RONALDO IN SHARP FOCUS AHEAD OF PORTUGAL MATCH AGAINST SWITZERLAND

Prior to Portugal’s FIFA World Cup last-16 match against Switzerland on Monday, speculation about Cristiano Ronaldo’s future and his outburst against South Korea after being substituted was in the forefront.

The attacker, who left Manchester United amicably last month after a contentious interview, was said to be moving to Saudi Arabia, but Portugal coach Fernando Santos claimed to be unaware of the rumors.

Prior to Tuesday’s match against the Swiss, Santos said at a press conference, “I have not spoken to him about this.” “I have no knowledge of this. He makes the choice. I was completely unaware of this until I arrived here and then I learned about it.

Given that other teams around the world are apparently interested in signing Ronaldo, his future remains uncertain.

“The World Cup is our primary concern. The coach answered, “I don’t know anything about this other issue.

Santos was forced to continue responding to inquiries about his player, including Ronaldo’s outburst against South Korea after being replaced, which he claimed was caused by an opponent’s remark rather than his coach.

“Yes, I absolutely did not like it. I truly didn’t like it, and as of that point, the matter is over, stated Santos.

The head coach likewise declined to address rumors circulating at home on whether or not Ronaldo will start on the bench against the Swiss on Tuesday.

I don’t read this kind of material. I’m concentrating on my squad. We are concentrating on our training and not on any polls, Santos stated. “I have always tried to concentrate on the current game. I don’t care if the information is accurate or not.

Santos considers it significant that Portugal advances to the round of eight for the first time since 2006.

“There has been a lengthy break; this match is what matters. Santos, who has been in charge since 2014, stressed that Portugal has a constant commitment to triumph.