Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has turned off comments on his recent social media posts after receiving a series of abuse online. The 31-year-old played for Portugal at the World Cup until they were eliminated in the last 16 by Spain.
A stoppage-time goal from Arsenal’s Mikel Merino gave Spain a 1-0 victory over Portugal, advancing to the quarter-finals against Belgium. Fernandes addressed Portuguese supporters on social media after his departure for the World Cup, making his disappointment clear.
Fernandez wrote of “X” that he was “sad, frustrated and disillusioned.” “This group of players has raised my expectations, not only for the quality but also for the fact that we have a great group that we have put together over the last few years.
“Thank you to all the players, the technical team and all the staff who accompanied and helped us every day during the World Cup. To all Portuguese people, a huge thank you for your support and belief.”
The post subsequently sparked a wave of abuse towards Fernandes from some Portuguese supporters and fans of Cristiano Ronaldo, ultimately prompting the United captain to close the comments section. Ronaldo scored three goals throughout the tournament, and the legendary forward’s sister Katia Aveiro seemed to make her feelings clear during the World Cup.
After Portugal drew in their opening game against the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Katia reportedly liked an Instagram post commenting on Fernandes’ performance. The post was accompanied by a photo of Fernandes and read: “This is Rafinha from Portugal. Too much popcorn for the national team.”
Following Portugal’s World Cup exit, manager Roberto Martinez has confirmed he will step down as the country’s head coach. “The cycle is over,” Martinez told reporters after the game. “It’s important to have new voices, new leaders.
“I will take the memories back with me and hope that Portugal will have good memories in the three and a half years that I was the head coach of the team. It was the experience of my life.”
“It wasn’t decided in advance (that I would leave after the tournament). I came here with the goal of winning the World Cup, but since I didn’t win there was no point in continuing.”
