Fernandes fires Ronaldo warning to media after Nations League defeat

The Portugal captain had a frustrating game in front of goal as the team crashed out of the UEFA Nations League against Spain.

Bruno Fernandes has warned reporters not to make a ‘soap opera’ about Cristiano Ronaldo’s lack of goals.

The forward drew another blank in Tuesday’s 1-0 Nations League loss to Spain in Braga. He has now scored just one goal in his last 10 games for Manchester United and Portugal, although most of his club games have been as a substitute.

The defeat also cost Portugal first place in Group A2 and a spot in next summer’s Nations League finals.

“Cristiano is here to help and will continue to help,” Fernandes told reporters after the match.

“It’s ok. Frustration is normal, he wants to win and score goals. There’s no need to make a soap opera around him. The goals will come, they are phases.”

Ronaldo kept the Spanish defenders on their toes throughout the match, but only had two shots in total. Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon saved both of them.

The 37-year-old will now turn his attention back to United for Sunday’s derby against Manchester City in the Premier League.