Portuguese head coach Fernando Santos asked journalists to leave Cristiano Ronaldo alone during his pre-match presser.
Santos also explained how he informed Ronaldo of the decision to bench him for the South Korea match.
Reports alleged that Ronaldo wanted to leave the Portuguese camp during the ongoing FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 after he was dropped to the bench.
Also Read: Facts to Consider as Brazil Take on Croatia in World Cup Quarter Finals
“It’s time for you guys to leave Ronaldo alone in acknowledgment of what he has done for Portuguese football," Santos stated.
Santos noted that before benching Ronaldo, he talked with the team's captain during lunch in his office.
The Portuguese manager highlighted that, for obvious reasons, Ronaldo was not happy with the decision, but the latter eventually concurred.
Santos also highlighted that Ronaldo never informed him of his desire to leave the national team.
In the presser, Santos also revealed that Ronaldo was the first player in the squad who went out for the warm-up sessions despite knowing he would be benched.
“He (Ronaldo) also celebrated with the players and was the one who invited his mates to thank the fans,” Santos noted.
Also Read: Rigoberto Song Explains Leaked Video on Onana Dismissal from World Cup