Bernardo Silva believes Cristiano Ronaldo has proved that he can still play at the top of the game after making World Cup history.
The Manchester City midfielder revealed that Ronaldo’s angry departure from Manchester United just days before Portugal’s opening game against Ghana did not faze him. Ronaldo became the first player to score at five World Cup tournaments as Fernando Santos’ men edged a five-goal thriller at Stadium 974.
And while there have been suggestions the 37-year-old could wind down his career with a big-money pay-day in the United States or Saudi Arabia in the New Year, Silva feels that would be a waste of his talent.
Silva said: “We are happy to know that we can still count on Cristiano – not just the goal but he worked a lot for the team. What he does now is his decision and the decision of whoever it is who offers him a contract.
“I think he can still play at the very top. It depends on what Ronaldo wants. I don’t know what he wants for his life. He has to speak with his family and decide for himself, right?
“I support his decision in terms of it’s his decision. He’s my team-mate in Portugal – if he’s happy, we’re happy. He’s been fine, he’s been great.”
Silva's comments come after Ronaldo told Piers Morgan that he will "continue to score goals" at a "high level" prior to his Old Trafford exit. He put the acrimony behind him to score from the penalty spot as Portugal prevailed 3-2 to go top of their group. It was his 118th goal for his country in his 192nd appearance.
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Ronaldo was named man of the match - and his obligatory appearance in the press conference lasted just two minutes and 12 seconds. He answered one question before joining his team-mates in the dressing room.
Ronaldo said: “This was a beautiful moment - my fifth World Cup and we won. It was a week that finished a chapter - and this chapter is now closed.
“But a world record! The first player in five World Cups to score. That makes me proud. I’m very happy the team got a good result.
“We won. I could help my team. All the rest does not matter. We know the first match is crucial. A tough game but a good result.”
