- 2 hours ago
‘Bullet proof’ Ronaldo defends himself after interview controversy
Robin Bairner
- Updated: 23 May 2023 08:56 CDT
- 4 min read
Manchester United’s Cristiano Ronaldo has defended himself over the timing of the release of his interview with Piers Morgan in a shock press conference appearance with Portugal.
Ronaldo was not scheduled to speak to the media but appeared on Monday morning in front of the press to field questions.
Inevitably, the interview in which he claimed he was “betrayed” and “disrespected” by Man Utd was the hot topic of conversation for the 37-year-old.
MORE: Ronaldo pushing for shock Real Madrid return
The two-part interview on TalkTV has rocked the Old Trafford club to such an extent that they are presently considering what disciplinary action to take, with the possibility that Ronaldo is sacked not off the table.
“Timing is always timing. From your side it is easy to look at how we can choose timings. Sometimes you write truths, sometimes you write lies. I don’t have to worry what other think. I talk when I want to. Everybody knows who I am, what I believe in,” Ronaldo said when asked about the issue.
"If I had something to prove at 37 years and 8 months, I would be worried. After what I've done and won, it would be a surprise for me."
Ronaldo also asked the media to stop asking his team-mates about his Manchester United future, stating that he is “bullet proof” and “iron clad”.
"I'm used to what revolves around Cristiano, there's always debate and conversations," he said. "Next time the players come here, don't always talk about Cristiano. Don't talk about me, I'm bullet proof.
"It's annoying, at least I was upset. If they asked me about Rafa [Silva], for example, I wouldn't talk about it. If you want to talk, ask questions about him and the national team.
"It’s an ambitious group that is hungry and focused. So I’m sure [the interview] won’t shake the changing room’s concentration and focus. I’m feeling great, I’m recovered and I’m training well and ready to start the World Cup in the best way possible.
"I feel that this Portugal squad has amazing potential. I think we can win for sure, but we need to focus on the next game. So, it’s focusing in Ghana, get a win and go from there."
Ronaldo transfer latest
Meanwhile, Ronaldo continues to be linked with a move away from Manchester United, although his options appear to be slim.
Bayern Munich discussed the possibility of a summer move but have since distanced themselves from the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, while Chelsea are the only possibility from the Premier League.
Karim Benzema’s injury sustained with France has opened up the centre-forward slot at Real Madrid, with Ronaldo offering himself to the Bernabeu club, where he is the all-time leading scorer. However, this is unlikely to be a possibility that they are interested in.
MLS is a possibility open to Ronaldo, with Inter Miami and LAFC reportedly interested. All the indications are, however, that he wants to play at the top level in Europe.
While Ronaldo may well depart Man Utd in January, just where he could find himself playing thereafter still remains unclear.
