Ronaldo didn’t threaten to leave Qatar

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has denied that Cristiano Ronaldo threatened to leave the World Cup.

Portuguese publication Record claims the forward, 37, made the threat after being told he would not start their last-16 game against Switzerland.

In the previous game against South Korea, the Portugal captain reacted angrily when he was substituted.

The FPF said: “At no time did Cristiano Ronaldo threaten to leave the national team during the stay in Qatar.”

Ronaldo was substituted off the field in both of Portugal’s opening games and coach Fernando Santos said he “didn’t like” Ronaldo’s reaction when he was again replaced during the 2-1 group defeat by South Korea.

“Cristiano Ronaldo builds up a unique track record every day at the service of the national team and the country, which must be respected. 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” part of the statement reads.