Cristiano Ronaldo upbeat during World Cup training despite Man United exit - in pictures

Portugal take on Ghana in their opening match of tournament on Thursday

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo warms up during the Portugal's official training on the eve of the group H World Cup soccer match between Portugal and Ghana at the Al Shahaniya SC training site in Al Shahaniya, Qatar, Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022. (AP Photo / Lee Jin-man)

Cristiano Ronaldo controls a ball during the Portugal's training session on Wednesday. AP

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, centre, Diogo Dalot, right, and goalkeeper Diogo Costa, left, arrive for training. AP

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, centre, warms up with Portugal teammates. AP

Portugal's Bruno Fernandes, second from right, warms up during training. AP

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, centre, warms up with his teammates during training. AP

Portugal's goalkeepers Diogo Costa, right, and Jose Sa, left, warm up. AP

Portugal's head coach Fernando Santos oversees training. AP

Diogo Dalot of Portugal controls the ball during training. Getty

Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo was all smiles during training for his team's World Cup 2022 opener against Ghana on Thursday despite the turmoil in his professional life.

Ronaldo's preparation for what is most likely his last World Cup has been overshadowed by his bitter departure from Manchester United.

It was announced late on Tuesday that the 37-year-old will leave Old Trafford with "immediate effect" in the aftermath of an outspoken interview with broadcaster Piers Morgan in which he said he felt "betrayed" by the club and had no respect for manager Erik ten Hag.

His club form this season has been poor but he is still hoping for a final shot at World Cup glory. Portugal will be expected to start with a victory at Stadium 974 against a Ghana side who sit 61st in world rankings.

Portugal coach Fernando Santos claimed that Ronaldo's exit from United has not affected preparations.

"The players are absolutely focused, with a great spirit, convinced about what they have to do, what their objectives are and realistic about the challenges they are facing," Santos said.

"Winning a competition of this magnitude is difficult."

The match between Portugal and Ghana begins at 8pm UAE time.