Portugal likely to take strict action against coach Santos after Cristiano Ronaldo was benched for crucial matches

LISBON: A recent report claimed that Portugal coach Fernando Santos is likely to face heavy consequences after superstar Cristiano Ronaldo was benched for two crucial matches in the World Cup. Several people, including legendary footballer Luís Figo, had criticized the tactics of Santos following the defeat of Portugal in the quarter-final of the FIFA World Cup. However, Santos had maintained that he had no regrets about omitting Ronaldo from the starting line-up.

Santos argued that had fielded the team that did well against Switzerland and Ronaldo came on the field as a substitute when the team needed him. However, it is learned that Santos is set to be sacked from the role of the Portuguese coach. Portugal fans are reportedly upset with Santos for keeping Ronaldo on the bench for most of the time.

According to reports, Portugal is considering bringing in Jose Mourinho as a replacement for Santos. Mourinho is currently the coach of the Italian club Roma. Portugal's Euro Cup qualifiers begin in March. Portugal is planning to find a new coach before that.