Cristiano Ronaldo explains his controversial gesture against South Korea

Cristiano Ronaldo says that the gestures he made when he was substituted against South Korea weren’t directed at coach Fernando Santos, but at an opponent who was urging him to leave the pitch.

After the Portuguese coach explained the situation at the post match press conference, Ronaldo added his version of events.

“The Korean player was telling me to leave quickly and I told him to shut up because he has no authority,” Cristiano said.

“There is no need for controversy. It’s the heat of the match. Whatever happens, things always stay on the pitch. The most important thing is that we have to be united. We are in the next phase. Not only the players, but also the Portuguese people have to be confident.”

Fernando Santos clarifies

Fernando Santos’ words reinforced those of Ronaldo, as he said the captain was angry with an opponent who was insulting him.

“Ronaldo was angry with the Korean player who was insulting him and kicking him off the field. He responded to him, it’s perfectly normal. I heard what the Korean said, in English, and I have no doubt about it,” he explained at a press conference.

“Ronaldo replied ‘you must be in a big hurry for me to leave.’ Pepe even went after the Korean player for that.”