Bruno Fernandes confident Portugal won't be derailed by disraction of Cristiano Ronaldo's Manchester United exit at World Cup

Ronaldo said it felt like “the right time for a new challenge” after his contract with the Premier League side was terminated.

The 37-year-old’s position at Old Trafford looked untenable after his explosive interview with Piers Morgan in which he criticised manager Erik ten Hag and club officials.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Thursday’s game against Ghana, Fernandes said: “We are all focused 100 per cent on the national team and the World Cup. We are all aware of what we have to do.

“We are in a championship that is the dream of every player and a competition where every player wants to play.”

Asked if he would feel uncomfortable with his former Manchester United team-mate, Fernandes added: “I don’t feel uncomfortable, I don’t have to pick a side.

“Cristiano has always been an inspiration for me so it was a dream come true to be able to play with him but we know nothing ever lasts forever.

“It was good while it lasted. We have to respect his decision, whether we agree or not.”

Portugal manager Fernando Santos insisted the subject of Ronaldo’s move had not been raised among the group, adding: “This is something that has not been discussed when we have all been together.

“The conversation has not come up at any moment, not even from him (Ronaldo).”

United’s statement on Tuesday evening said the decision was mutually agreed with the player, whose reported £500,000-a-week contract still had six months to run.