Jose Mourinho calls reports about Cristiano Ronaldo dispute ‘fake news’

Jose Mourinho has denied making comments about Cristiano Ronaldo’s situation with Portugal, describing reports linking him to the controversy as “fake news”.

The Real Madrid manager addressed the claims in a firm message posted on his social media accounts, according to Marca. The reports, which circulated mainly in Brazil, suggested Mourinho had spoken about the dispute involving his former player and the Portugal national team.

Mourinho said he had not discussed the matter and had “no comment” to make on an issue with which he was not involved.

He also made clear that he did not want to intervene in the situation, citing his respect for the Portuguese Football Federation, Portugal manager Jorge Jesus and Ronaldo.

The former manager of Ronaldo therefore rejected any involvement in the controversy, particularly after statements were attributed to him that he said he had never made.

Mourinho spent the day working with his Real Madrid squad at Valdebebas before visiting Raul Asencio in hospital.

Asencio has undergone surgery after suffering a stress fracture in his leg bone, with Mourinho visiting the player to check on his condition.