REAL MADRID COACH Jose Mourinho says he cares far more about Cristiano Ronaldo’s form than his happiness.
After Real’s 3-0 win over Granada, former Manchester United forward Ronaldo told reporters he had not celebrated properly after his goals because he was sad for professional reasons.
During the subsequent international break, the Portugal star insisted the problem was not money-related, and Mourinho has said he is not bothered about the speculation if the player’s output remains suitable.
“If Ronaldo is sad and plays like he plays, perfect for me,” the ex-Chelsea coach told reporters on Friday.
“I’ll say the same thing: I coach football and my responsibility is our results.
“I have responsibility for the performance of my players. And if something goes wrong, you kill me.
“Ronaldo trains 100 percent, sometimes he does it good or not, but he’s a team player, always disciplined in training – he’s exemplary.“I don’t have to worry with things that are superficial and not fundamental.”
Mourinho accepted that, as head coach at the Santiago Bernabeu, he must take responsibility for negative results, but insists his star man’s performances are down to the individual.
“My responsibilities in Ronaldo’s case? I have only a few responsibilities, in the positive performance of the players,” the two-time Champions League-winning coach said.
“As Cristiano is playing well for so many years, the credit is his. I’m just a football coach, with increased responsibility, but nothing more.”
Mourinho felt the timing of Ronaldo’s comments – immediately prior to the international break – led to the issue dominating the media agenda in the absence of club football.
“It didn’t bother me that Ronaldo came out to mixed zone to expose his personal sadness,” Mourinho said.
“These has been two fantastic weeks for the press,” he added sarcastically.“Without games, without emotion, with these (Ronaldo’s) statements – it’s been perfect for the press.
“But Ronaldo now needs peace, quiet, and to play football, which is what he likes the best, and what he likes to do.”
Real return to La Liga action away to Sevilla on Saturday.
