Surprising turn of events, Cristiano Ronaldo’s relationship with ex-Portugal coach Fernando Santos hit a breaking point after the striker was sidelined during the 2022 World Cup. Santos, who hadn’t spoken to Ronaldo for a year following the controversial decision, revealed insights into their strained rapport last year. The fallout stemmed from Ronaldo’s omission during crucial knockout matches against Switzerland and Morocco, marking a stark contrast to their previous successes, notably Portugal’s Euro 2016 triumph.
Despite their past achievements, including a close professional and personal bond, Santos’ decision to bench Ronaldo led to irreparable damage. Reflecting on their fallout in a candid interview with A Bola in 2023, Santos described their relationship as akin to that of family, emphasizing the depth of their estrangement since the World Cup in Qatar.
Following Santos’ departure, Roberto Martinez assumed the managerial reins in 2023, steering Portugal to the Euro 2024 quarter-finals amid mixed performances from Ronaldo. Despite the 39-year-old’s struggles, highlighted by a missed penalty against Slovenia, Martinez faces a pivotal decision ahead of a crucial clash with France. The prospect of benching Ronaldo again looms large, raising questions about how the legendary forward might react given his past frustrations and emotional displays on the pitch.
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As Portugal navigates the challenges of Euro 2024 under Martinez’s guidance, all eyes are on whether Ronaldo’s turbulent history with coaching decisions will impact his role in future matches, including the upcoming quarter-final showdown against France.
