THE WORLD CUP could bring Cristiano Ronaldo into contact with former Manchester United team-mate Casemiro for the first time since his shock Old Trafford departure.
The dynamic duo also played together at Real Madrid, but Brazil stalwart Casemiro revealed he has not tried to contact his Portuguese colleague since or during the dramatic fallout from his ex-teammate’s controversial ‘Piers Morgan interview.’
Casemiro confirmed: “I haven’t exchanged any messages with him, but Cristiano is a really experienced guy and knows what’s good for his career.
“Of course we’re sad, especially in Manchester, because you’re talking about one of the best players in history.
“Cristiano is a grown up and knows what’s best for him. As friends we just wish him all the best in the world and football wise hope everything goes well – except when he’s playing against us.”
World Cup favourites Brazil trained behind closed doors at the Grand Hamad Stadium at the weekend, without injured stars Neymar and Danilo.
Brazil coach Tite is trying to put a brave face on his injury issues and potential Neymar replacement Antony, who has now missed training for tow days running due to illness.
If the Manchester United striker fails to fully recover for tomorrow’s their match against Switzerland it could lead to a starting chance for one of Arsenal’s inform due Gabriel Jesus or Gabriel Martinelli against their north Lindon team-mate Granit Xhaka.
The highly-decorated Dani Alves, now 39 and playing his club football with Pumas in Mexico, is a contender to replace Danilo at left-back.
