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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Richard Fay

Portugal manager asked about impact of Cristiano Ronaldo transfer to Manchester United

Portugal manager Fernando Santos has dismissed the suggestion Cristiano Ronaldo will now have extra motivation after returning to Manchester United.

Ronaldo, 36, completed his sensational return to Old Trafford on transfer deadline day after United agreed an initial €15m fee with Juventus for his services.

The Portuguese superstar has signed a two-year deal with the option of a third and will play alongside international teammate Bruno Fernandes on a weekly basis for his club side.

The transfer was high on the agenda at the first Portugal press conference of the current international break but Santos wasn't too keen on discussing the matter.

"Cristiano Ronaldo is part of the team, he's our captain, and like all the players he's very motivated," Santos told reporters at a press conference.

"As [goalkeeper, Rui] Patricio said earlier, it's always an extra motivation for him to play for his country."

When further pressed on the benefits of Ronaldo and Fernandes being club teammates the Portuguese manager once again insisted his only focus was on their performances at international level.

He added: "What matters to me is their motivation (Fernandes and Ronaldo) in the national team. Now, you who are British journalists, when you're there, ask them about that (playing together for United).

"What interests me is the concentration they have on the national team and I can guarantee that they do."

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