Francisco Conceição Discusses Portugal vs Uzbekistan and Cristiano Ronaldo

Francisco Conceição stated that Portuguese national team players are under "no obligation" to pass the ball to Cristiano Ronaldo during a press conference previewing the match against Uzbekistan. Speaking to the media, the winger also addressed comments from Villas-Boas regarding the squad’s leisure habits and affirmed the team’s intent to win.

How does Francisco Conceição view the match against Uzbekistan?

Portugal enters the fixture against Uzbekistan with an aggressive mindset, according to Francisco Conceição. During a press conference reported by Bola na Rede and zerozero.pt, the player described the team’s current state of readiness and determination.

We are with the knife between our teeth, we have to beat Uzbekistan.
Francisco Conceição

What is the team’s dynamic with Cristiano Ronaldo?

Addressing the tactical relationship with captain Cristiano Ronaldo, Conceição pushed back against the idea of a mandatory focus on the veteran striker. According to Flashscore.pt, the winger clarified that the team’s play does not revolve solely around one player.

We have no obligation to pass him the ball.
Francisco Conceição

How did the team respond to Villas-Boas’ leisure comments?

The squad’s off-field behavior became a point of discussion after Villas-Boas suggested that the national team should spend less time at the beach, as reported by A Bola. Conceição used the media availability to rebate a nickname and address the suggestions regarding the players’ leisure activities.

Will Sérgio Conceição become the next manager?

Speculation regarding Sérgio Conceição‘s potential appointment as the next national team coach was addressed by the coach himself. According to SAPO, he declined to speculate on the possibility, stating that it "is not even respectful" on his part to comment on the matter.