Tension between Cristiano Ronaldo and Santos might convince Portugal to look for a new coach.
Former Portugal international Maniche believes Jose Mourinho is a perfect option to replace Fernando Santos as Portugal’s manager.
Santos has come under fire after his side’s shock defeat against Morocco in the World Cup quarter-finals. His decision to bench Cristiano Ronaldo in Portugal’s last two games in the tournament has also undermined his position in the national team’s dressing room.
In recent days, several reports have claimed the Portuguese FA (FPF) are on the verge of sacking Santos.
Maniche, who played under Mourinho during his spell at Porto, believes the Roma boss can be a solution to Portugal’s problems.
“Jose Mourinho is the coach who makes perfect sense for the position, for everything he has already achieved and has been achieving,” Maniche said to Radio Renascenca.
“He is an experienced coach who is very prepared for difficulties because he knows our football and football abroad, he is intelligent and knows how to deal with young people.
“He has already adapted to this generation and proved it by winning a title at Roma, which didn’t happen a few years ago.”
In his statement after the Morocco loss, Ronaldo admitted his World Cup “dream” was over.
But he hasn’t announced his retirement from international football, meaning he might be planning to continue his Portugal career until the 2024 Euros. CR7′ stay will significantly reduce Santos’ chances of continuing his job.
“There has to be a direct and frank conversation with both (Ronaldo & Santos),” Maniche added.
“It is not an easy decision for the president of the Federation, because he has the best Portuguese player of all time, and he has a coach with a contract.
“We cannot escape the evidence that exists a malaise between Fernando Santos and Cristiano Ronaldo.”
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