Cristiano Ronaldo took his Portuguese teammates to dinner in Qatar as he emerged from the drama surrounding his Manchester United exit.
The newcomer to the free-agent market scored from the penalty spot in Portugal’s opening 3-2 win over Ghana. The game was the first time he had appeared on the pitch since he and the Red Devils agreed to part ways.
Controversies caused by Ronaldo’s interview with Piers Morgan has taken the centered stage prior to the Qatar World Cup and in the first week of the tournament. So far, Cristiano Ronaldo’s club troubles have dominated the headlines over Portugal’s bid for its first World Cup trophy.
Amid all that, Cristiano Ronaldo took his Portuguese teammates to dinner in Qatar, with the side pictured enjoying their break from training.
Ronaldo scored for Portugal in Thursday’s 3-2 opening win against Ghana.
However, the team appeared united after they were photographed having dinner together after Fernandos Santos gave them a break from training.
The outing showed a spirit of unity within the team, with the only missing players being those with relatives in Qatar, such as Jose Sa, Joao Cancelo, and Bernardo Silva. Reports claimed that they decided to spend time with loved ones instead of attending the outing.
On the other hand, Manchester United duo Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot were among those pictured on their night out with the squad despite former team-mate Ronaldo’s comments against the Red Devils.
According to El Espanol, Ronaldo invited his teammates to dinner at the recently opened Tatel de Doha restaurant on Al Maha Island, to which Ronaldo has ties.
Tatel de Doha is owned by Mabel Hospitality, whose partners include Cristiano Ronaldo and tennis legend Rafael Nadal.
Ronaldo is putting his Man United drama behind him after leaving the club through mutual resignation. Ronaldo’s departure from Old Trafford came after his explosive interview with Piers Morgan.
They were out until 11.30 pm before the national team bus picked up the players to their team camp.
In the interview with Piers Morgan, Ronaldo said he feels ‘betrayed’ by the club and that he ‘doesn’t respect’ Erik ten Hag as he feels the Dutchman doesn’t respect him.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo accused Man United of betrayal and slammed the lack of investment in the club’s infrastructure.
Some Portuguese players, including Bernardo Silva, did not show up for the Ronaldo’s sponsored dinner as they had plans with their families.
Former Man United team-mate Bruno Fernandes appeared for the team dinner.
The World Cup will likely be Ronaldo’s last chance to win the one major prize missing from his incredible resume.
He will also try to show what he can do as he searches for a new club to join once the tournament is over.
Portugal could secure a place in the last 16 if they beat Uruguay on Monday 28th of November 2022. The match will kick off at 20:00.
