Cristiano Ronaldo to skip Portugal’s final press conference before their World Cup campaign starts

Cristiano Ronaldo will skip Portugal’s final press conference before they begin their World Cup campaign against Ghana, less than 24 hours after his Manchester United contract was torn up.

Ronaldo, who has captained his country for more than a decade, is normally expected to appear alongside manager Fernando Santos to answer questions from the media 24 hours before kick-off.

However, it is clear that he will not be in attendance on Wednesday and Bruno Fernandes will likely fill the duties instead.

Ronaldo’s no-show comes just hours after his Old Trafford contract was torn up following his bombshell interview with Piers Morgan in which he publicly criticized the club and manager Erik Ten Hag.

Cristiano Ronaldo will not attend Portugal’s press conference with Fernando Santos

Bruno Fernandes replaces Ronaldo at Portugal’s press conference on Wednesday

Ronaldo is the captain of Portugal in his fifth World Cup in Qatar, which starts on Thursday

The interview was broadcast last week and Ronaldo made no bones about it, admitting he had ‘no respect’ for Ten Hag, as he felt the Dutchman disrespected him.

The 37-year-old also labeled United a “marketing club” and accused the Glazer family of caring more about off-pitch activities than what happens on the pitch.

United released a statement on Tuesday evening confirming they had parted ways with Ronaldo by ‘mutual consent’, ending his second spell at the club.

As revealed exclusively by Sports mailRonaldo will not receive any compensation, meaning he will not get the £16 million he should have earned if he had paid out his contract.

Ronaldo’s departure was not the only major statement released on Tuesday night, as minutes after his contract was torn up, the Glazer family confirmed they are open to selling the club.

Ronaldo’s contract with Manchester United was terminated by ‘mutual consent’ on Tuesday evening

Now that Ronaldo is a free agent, Todd Boehly is reportedly keen to sign him to Chelsea

They have owned the Red Devils since 2005, but their reign could end in the not too distant future.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo is now a free agent and has been linked with a move to Chelsea, with Blues owner Todd Boehly reportedly keen to bring the Portuguese star to Stamford Bridge.

His club’s future remains uncertain, but Ronaldo recently stressed that he is “committed and focused” on Portugal, with the striker aiming to lead his country to victory in its fifth World Cup.