Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has clarified the circumstances surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo's omission from Portugal's recent Nations League matches against Norway and Denmark. At a press conference in Copenhagen, Jesus emphasized that the decision to leave Ronaldo out was made in advance and in consultation with the player himself. This move was part of a broader strategy to manage Ronaldo's physical condition, a plan that Jesus had discussed with him prior to the matches.
Jesus highlighted that he had worked with Ronaldo for a year and was well aware of his physical condition, which rarely allowed him to play every game. Given this, Jesus and Ronaldo had agreed that he would not participate in the matches against Norway and Denmark. The coach also mentioned that Ronaldo had expressed his willingness to accept any decision made by the coaching staff, stating that he would play, be on the bench, or stay out as required.
Contrary to reports suggesting a dispute between Jesus and Ronaldo, the coach insisted that there was no problem. He explained that the same approach was applied to another player, Bruno Fernandes, who was also managed carefully due to his condition. Jesus emphasized that a player's status does not grant them different rights and that the rules are the same for everyone on the team.
Jesus addressed rumors that Ronaldo had refused to train, strongly rejecting the suggestion. According to Jesus, Ronaldo engaged in gym work, mobility exercises on the field, and strength training at the hotel, and was scheduled to train normally. The coach expressed surprise at the idea that any player would refuse to train, emphasizing that such behavior is not characteristic of Ronaldo or the Portugal national team.
The coach also explained why Ronaldo warmed up during the match against Norway but was not brought on. Jesus stated that he had considered using Ronaldo late in the game but decided against it based on the match's progression. He acknowledged that Ronaldo, like any player, would naturally feel unhappy about warming up without being used.
Jesus confirmed that he had directly communicated his plans to Ronaldo and believed there was no unresolved issue between them. He mentioned that Portugal Football Federation president Pedro Proença had also inquired about the situation but found that there was no problem to address.
Finally, Jesus made it clear that he is the coach and makes decisions based on what he believes is best for the team. He stated that no player, regardless of their status, will influence his decisions, and that his approach is consistent across all players.
Key points
- Jesus and Ronaldo had a pre-agreed plan for him to miss the matches against Norway and Denmark due to his physical condition.
- Jesus denied reports of a dispute with Ronaldo and stated that the same management approach was applied to another player, Bruno Fernandes.
- Ronaldo did not refuse to train, according to Jesus, and was scheduled to train normally with the team.
