Cristiano Ronaldo Did Not Threaten to Leave the 2022 FIFA World Cup
The Claim
Cristiano Ronaldo threatened to leave Portugal after a rift with coach Fernando Santos and being benched against Switzerland.
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Emerging story
Sports media outlets and social media users claimed Cristiano Ronaldo threatened to leave the national team after a rift with Portugal coach Fernando Santos and being benched against Switzerland.
Misbar’s Analysis
Misbar investigated the circulating claim and found it to be fake.
In an official statement, the Portuguese Football Federation denied the viral claim.
The Portuguese Football Federation’s Statement
On Thursday, December 8, the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) refuted Cristiano Ronaldo's threat to leave the World Cup team after being benched against Switzerland.
"The FPF clarifies that at no time did the captain of the Selecao, Cristiano Ronaldo, threaten to leave the national team during the stay in Qatar," said the federation.
"Every day Ronaldo is building up a unique track record at the service of the national team and the country, which must be respected."
Ronaldo's participation in the match against Switzerland was, according to the FPF, just another indication of his dedication to the cause.
Cristiano Ronaldo Is Facing Criticism
After Portugal decided they could be better off without Cristiano Ronaldo, following Manchester United's lead, he was demoted to the status of the superstar no one wanted.
Portugal's coach Fernando Santos was rewarded for his bravery in benching Cristiano Ronaldo with a comprehensive attacking performance and a 6-1 victory against Switzerland, setting up a World Cup quarterfinal matchup against Morocco.
First, Manchester United departed the player after he publicly criticized the team, and now Portugal has done the impossible by benching him in their starting line-up at a major tournament.
Ronaldo was swarmed by hundreds of cameramen once the national anthems.
Ronaldo was seen in another photo during the match, appearing irritated with his coach.
Cristiano Ronaldo Breaks World Cup Record
Cristiano Ronaldo is the only player to ever score at a FIFA World Cup five times.
24 November 2022 will be a milestone in Ronaldo's career.
In Portugal's 3-2 win over Ghana, he became the first player to score in five World Cups.
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