Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has refuted claims that Cristiano Ronaldo has threatened to skip the World Cup.
According to Portuguese media outlet Record, the 37-year-old attacker threatened to leave the team after learning he wouldn’t start their last-16 match against Switzerland.
The captain of Portugal reacted violently when he was replaced in the last match against South Korea.
The FPF said: “At no time did Cristiano Ronaldo threaten to leave the national team during the stay in Qatar.”
Before Portugal’s World Cup opening, Ronaldo departed Manchester United amicably following a contentious interview in which the five-time Ballon d’Or winner criticized the team.
In both of Portugal’s early matches, Ronaldo was taken off the field and coach Fernando Santos stated he “didn’t appreciate” Ronaldo’s response when he was taken off again during the 2-1 group loss to South Korea.
In place of Ronaldo, Goncalo Ramos started the match against Switzerland, and the 21-year-old scored three goals in the 6-1 victory.
“Cristiano Ronaldo builds up a unique track record every day at the service of the national team and the country, which must be respected,” added the FPF.
“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.”
Portugal face Morocco in the quarter-finals on Saturday (15:00 GMT).
Ronaldo did not train with the other substitutes after Wednesday’s game, instead taking part in a gym session alongside those that started against Switzerland.