Cristiano Ronaldo defends explosive interview before World Cup

Portugal and Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo defended his explosive interview with Piers Morgan that was released before the start of the World Cup. 

"Timing is always timing," Ronaldo said in his first public comments since the interview was released last week, per Rob Dawson of ESPN. "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 others think. I talk when I want to. Everybody knows who I am, what I believe in." 

In the interview that went public after the English Premier League and other top-flight competitions paused for the World Cup, Ronaldo blasted United manager Erik ten Hag and other aspects of the club. It was reported ahead of the weekend that United are seeking to terminate Ronaldo's deal and could look to sue the 37-year-old for breach of contract. 

Meanwhile, Portugal's Bernardo Silva is among those who have voiced support for Ronaldo regarding the interview. 

As for on-the-pitch matters, Ronaldo missed Portugal's World Cup warm-up match against Nigeria due to a stomach bug. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner insisted Monday he'll be good to go for his country's World Cup opener versus Ghana on Thursday.

"I feel good," Ronaldo said about his status. "I had a small problem, but I'm already recovered. We've been doing good training, and I feel prepared to start the World Cup in the best way. I'm fine. I believe we have enormous potential. I believe [we can win] and I have that feeling, but we have to start well with Ghana, which is the hardest."

Dawson pointed out that Ronaldo hasn't featured in a competitive fixture since he played in United's 3-1 loss to Aston Villa on Nov. 6.