• Ruben Dias, a defender for Portugal, stated on Tuesday
• He said it was time to concentrate on the World Cup and put Cristiano Ronaldo’s incendiary comments in the past

The center-back for Manchester City claimed that despite the diversion, Ronaldo’s remarks had not hurt the country’s effort to win the championship for the first time ever

In an interview with Britain’s TalkTV last week, Ronaldo, who has played a minor role for Manchester United this season, criticised the team and coach Erik ten Hag.

He looked to exchange a chilly welcome with Bruno Fernandes, a teammate from Portugal and Manchester United, and was also seen grabbing Joao Cancelo by the head.

But Dias asserted that it was time to proceed.

“I don’t think Cristiano’s affairs have put a dent whatsoever into what we are trying to achieve here, so I don’t have much to say about it,” Dias said.

“I think we’ve talked about this enough, there’s not much to add. As a team we will focus on the World Cup now and not other issues.”

At his fifth World Cup, Ronaldo, who has a record-breaking 117 goals in 117 international matches for men’s football, will serve as captain.

The star forward is unapologetic about the controversy his interview with reporters caused, telling reporters: “I talk when I want to.”

Euro 2016 champions Portugal is one of the favourite teams in Qatar, but Dias would not predict how far they could advance.

The defender chose to concentrate on Ghana, who Portugal’s first opponent is on Thursday before matches against Uruguay and South Korea.

“We’re focused on winning against Ghana,” said Dias. “The best way to win is focus on one game at a time and that’s the best way to have a successful path ahead of us.

“Ghana are physically a strong team, technically as well. They have footballers who are playing at the top level in Europe.

“We are aware we are facing a very dangerous team. We’re focused on what we are doing, but aware of the difficulties that Ghana will bring. They are strong in transition when they recover the ball.”

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