Former Portugal national team head coach Paulo Bento spoke about how his relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo changed during his tenure from 2010 to 2014. According to the specialist, the tension within the team was linked to his refusal to compromise his principles. This is reported by Goal.com reports .
In an interview with the "Antena 1" channel, Bento emphasized the importance of defending his decisions as a coach. He believes that if a coach sacrifices their principles for star players, it means they are not being honest with their work. "I am paid to make decisions; if others make decisions in my place, that would be wrong," says Bento.
The former coach added that hierarchy and discipline in the dressing room must come first. He recalled that during his own playing career, he never challenged a coach over squad selection and stressed that it must be clear who is in charge of the team.
Currently, Cristiano Ronaldo continues his career with the Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr. He is competing for the title in the Saudi Pro League with his team and, after the season ends, will begin preparations with the Portugal national team for the 2026 World Cup.
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