Portugal Cristiano Ronaldo - SUHAIB SALEM/REUTERS
The 2022 World Cup in Qatar brought both triumph and disappointment for Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo. The tournament unfolded, placing Ronaldo at the center of controversy when former Portugal manager Fernando Santos unexpectedly dropped him from the starting lineup. This decision significantly impacted their relationship, creating a rift that remains unresolved. In this article, we will delve into the details of Ronaldo’s exclusion, Santos’ reasoning behind the decision, and the subsequent fallout between the two.
Ronaldo’s Lackluster Performance in the Group Stages
Ronaldo had the opportunity to shine on the world’s biggest football platform, but his performances in the group stage did not meet expectations. Despite scoring a goal in the opening match against Ghana, Ronaldo appeared to lack match fitness and rhythm. This situation troubled the coaching staff, including Santos, as they had to decide whether to include Ronaldo in the knockout stages.
The Controversial Decision to Bench Ronaldo
Santos made the bold and strategic move to bench Ronaldo for the crucial round-of-16 clash against Switzerland. The decision was based on Ronaldo’s underwhelming performances in the group stage and his lack of rhythm. Santos believed that giving another player, Goncalo Ramos, an opportunity in the starting lineup would provide a fresh spark to the team’s attack. This decision proved to be a masterstroke, as Ramos scored a hat-trick, leading Portugal to a convincing 6-1 victory.
Portugal’s Quarterfinal Exit and Ronaldo’s Frustration
Despite the success against Switzerland, Portugal’s journey in the World Cup came to an abrupt end in the quarterfinals against Morocco. Portugal trailed, so they brought Ronaldo on as a substitute, but he couldn’t make a significant impact on the game. The defeat marked the end of Portugal’s World Cup campaign, leaving Ronaldo and the team devastated.
Ronaldo’s Reaction and the Strained Relationship
Santos revealed that Ronaldo’s reaction to being benched was one of visible frustration. The decision had a profound impact on their relationship, with Ronaldo choosing to ignore Santos ever since the tournament ended. Santos, on the other hand, maintained that his decision was purely tactical and in the best interests of the team. He emphasized that their relationship was like that of a father and son or an older and younger brother and expressed his willingness to mend the rift.
The Aftermath: Ronaldo’s Resurgence and Santos’ Departure
Following Portugal’s World Cup exit, Ronaldo experienced a resurgence in his performances under the guidance of new manager Roberto Martinez. He regained his form and became a pivotal figure for the national team, scoring nine goals in seven Euro 2024 qualifiers. Meanwhile, Santos faced a different fate as he was relieved of his managerial duties with Poland after a disappointing start to their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign.
Santos Defends His Decision
Santos firmly stood by his decision to bench Ronaldo during the World Cup. He explained that Ronaldo was going through a difficult period in his career, both personally and professionally. The manager highlighted Ronaldo’s struggles with rhythm and lack of playing time at Manchester United during the second half of 2022. Santos maintained that his decision was strategic and aimed at getting the best out of Ronaldo in the long run.
The Future of Ronaldo and Santos’ Relationship
Despite the strained relationship between Ronaldo and Santos, the former manager expressed his unwavering support for the star player. Santos made it clear that he would always be there for Ronaldo and that their bond remained intact from his side. He hoped that the day would come when they would reconnect and resolve their differences.
Conclusion
The 2022 World Cup will forever be etched in the memories of Cristiano Ronaldo and Fernando Santos. The decision to drop Ronaldo from the starting lineup sent shockwaves through the football world and had a lasting impact on their relationship. While Santos defended his decision as a strategic move, Ronaldo’s frustration and subsequent silence indicate the depth of his disappointment. As both individuals continue their respective journeys in football, the possibility of reconciliation and rebuilding their bond remains a question mark. Only time will tell if Ronaldo and Santos can put their differences aside and find common ground once again.
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