Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has dismissed reports of a rift with Cristiano Ronaldo, stating that there was no incident between them despite Ronaldo's disappointment at being benched during the team's 2-1 Nations League win over Norway. Jesus made these comments during a press conference ahead of Portugal's Nations League clash with Denmark in Copenhagen. He emphasized that there was no issue between him and Ronaldo.
The controversy arose after Portugal's victory over Norway in Oslo on Sunday, when Ronaldo remained on the bench despite warming up for a significant period during the match. Ronaldo eventually did not play and went straight to the dressing room after the final whistle, instead of joining his teammates in greeting the Portuguese supporters in the stands. Jesus acknowledged that Ronaldo was unhappy about being benched but said such a reaction was understandable for a player who had prepared to enter the game.
Jesus explained that he had informed Ronaldo before the match that he would not start but could be introduced later. However, after assessing the game, Jesus decided not to bring Ronaldo onto the pitch. He described this decision as nothing to make a fuss about. Jesus also addressed reports that Ronaldo had refused to train on Tuesday, stating that the forward had instead been given individual exercises focusing on physical mobility and strengthening.
According to Jesus, Ronaldo was expected to train normally on Thursday as Portugal prepared for the Denmark encounter. However, Jesus indicated that Ronaldo might again begin the match on the bench, with AC Milan striker Goncalo Ramos likely to start after scoring Portugal's winning goal against Norway. Ramos's performance could earn him another starting opportunity.
Jesus stated that Ramos would be his preferred option if preparations continued according to plan. He left open the possibility of Ronaldo being introduced during the game, saying, "If I need him, he'll come on. If I don't need him, he won't." This approach suggests that Jesus's decisions regarding Ronaldo's playing time will be based on the team's needs during the match.
The situation surrounding Ronaldo's role in the national team has garnered significant attention as Portugal prepares for another Nations League fixture. At 41, Ronaldo has indicated that his playing career is nearing its end, announcing during the summer that the current season would likely be his last. Despite this, he remains a key figure in Portuguese football, holding national records for appearances and goals.
Ronaldo is Portugal's leading goalscorer and most-capped player, with 146 goals in 234 appearances for the national team. His status as captain and record holder means his involvement with Portugal is a major focus whenever he is left out of the starting line-up. Jesus maintained that his decisions regarding Ronaldo would be based on what he believes is required during the match, aiming to dismiss suggestions of a serious disagreement.
Key points
- Portugal coach Jorge Jesus denies reports of a rift with Cristiano Ronaldo.
- Ronaldo was left on the bench during Portugal's 2-1 Nations League victory over Norway.
- Jesus's decisions regarding Ronaldo's playing time will be based on the team's needs during the match.
