Barcelona star contradicts narrative around Cristiano Ronaldo: ‘I’ve never heard…’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid legend Cristiano Ronaldo has come in for no shortage of criticism during Portugal’s World Cup campaign, but he has found a surprising backer in Barcelona midfielder Gavi. The two will face off in the Round of 16 at the World Cup, with a place in the quarter-finals against the United States or Belgium as the prize.

The 41-year-old forward remains captain of the Portugal side, and has started all four of their games, scoring three goals. His brace against Uzbekistan kicked off a 5-0 win, and his penalty against Croatia was the difference during their first knockout tie. However during their games against DR Congo (1-1) and Colombia (0-0), Ronaldo has struggled to get into the flow of the match.

Some have suggested that Ronaldo should not continue in Roberto Martinez’s side, but the Portugal manager has defended his selection choices.

Gavi defends Cristiano Ronaldo – “I only hear it from fans”

Speaking ahead of the Iberian derby in the World Cup, Barcelona midfielder Gavi was asked if he agreed that Portugal would be better off without Ronaldo.

“I always hear that, but from people who aren’t on his team, from fans. Those on his team no doubt have tremendous respect for him. Obviously, Cristiano is one of the best players in history and can make the difference at any moment,” he told MD.

Real Madrid interests in Spain-Portugal

Naturally, Madridistas will be hoping the best for Ronaldo, albeit they do have more interests on both sies of the pitch. New signings Bernardo Silva and Marc Cucurella will both be in action for their respective teams too. Silva has largely had a reduced role off the bench for Martinez, while Cucurella has excelled for Spain, contributing three assists in their four games thus far.