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Introduction
Cristiano Ronaldo, renowned as one of the most effective strikers of the modern era, was surprisingly left on the bench during Portugal’s 2022 World Cup campaign.
The decision made by Portugal’s head coach, Fernando Santos, sparked controversy and left fans worldwide questioning the move.
In this article, we will look into the reasons behind this controversial decision and explore Santos’ explanation for benching Ronaldo.
The Tactical Decision
Santos, who currently manages Turkish team Besiktas, recently shed light on his decision to bench Ronaldo during the World Cup.
He clarified that the move was purely tactical and not personal, aimed at ensuring a balance within the team’s interests.
Santos firmly believes that he made the right decision, even though Portugal was eventually eliminated in the quarter-final stage of the tournament.
“We made a tactical decision and left Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench during the World Cup. I had to make this decision, and I did it right. If we had not been eliminated, there would not have been much trouble. The team is important to me.” – Fernando Santos
Ronaldo’s Fitness and Form
Santos emphasized that Ronaldo’s fitness and form played a significant role in the decision to bench him.
The 38-year-old striker was not at his natural peak during the tournament, struggling after an inconsistent season with Manchester United.
Ronaldo’s physical condition affected his performance, which might have influenced his ability to contribute effectively on the pitch, Santos revealed.
Communication Gap
Interestingly, Santos disclosed that he had not spoken to Ronaldo since the conclusion of their World Cup run.
While the reasons for this lack of communication remain undisclosed, it adds another layer of intrigue to the decision-making process and the relationship between the coach and star player.
Ronaldo’s Reputation and Global Reaction
Ronaldo’s reputation as a prolific goal scorer and his impressive track record on the international stage make his benching a topic of widespread discussion.
Fans worldwide expressed their disappointment and disbelief over the decision, questioning Santos’ judgment.
The absence of Ronaldo during crucial moments of the tournament undoubtedly had a significant impact on Portugal’s performance and their overall chances of success.
The Controversy Revealed
Santos’ explanation for benching Ronaldo has shed some light on the controversial decision.
By labeling it as a tactical move, he suggests that he prioritized the team’s interest and the overall balance of the squad.
However, it is important to note that the decision to bench such a famous player inevitably invites scrutiny and criticism, particularly when Portugal failed to progress further in the tournament.
Ronaldo’s Legacy
Despite the disappointment of being benched, Ronaldo’s legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time remains intact.
His contributions to the sport, both at the club and international levels, are undeniable.
Ronaldo has consistently demonstrated his athleticism, and goal-scoring skills, leaving a lasting impact on the game.
Conclusion
The decision to bench Cristiano Ronaldo during Portugal’s 2022 World Cup campaign raised eyebrows and sparked intense debate among fans and pundits alike.
Fernando Santos, the head coach, defended his move by categorizing it as a tactical decision aimed at maintaining a balance within the team.
While the controversy surrounding Ronaldo’s benching may have lingered, his reputation as one of the greatest players in football history stands unblemished.
As the football world continues to discuss this decision, it serves as a reminder of the complexities and pressures faced by coaches in managing star players during international tournaments.
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