Cristiano Ronaldo has released a statement addressing the dramatic walkout from Portugal's national team camp, admitting he should face disciplinary action but firmly stating he will not retire from international football. The 41-year-old Al-Nassr forward expressed his regret and acknowledged that his actions have consequences. Ronaldo had previously apologized for his behavior but emphasized that he should be punished accordingly.
According to Ronaldo, he and coach Jorge Jesus had agreed on a plan to manage his fitness during the Nations League camp. However, on the matchday against Norway, Jesus allegedly failed to fulfill his promise of giving Ronaldo 30 minutes on the pitch. Ronaldo described warming up from half-time, only to watch as the minutes passed without being brought on. This incident led to Ronaldo feeling disrespected and mistreated by Jesus.
Ronaldo claimed that a follow-up meeting with Jesus resulted in an agreement that the coach would clarify matters during his next press conference. The agreement was built around an eight-point document stating that Ronaldo had never demanded playing time and had respected Jesus's decisions. However, Ronaldo said Jesus's public comments afterward did not reflect their private agreement, describing an aggressiveness and dismissive tone that he found unacceptable.
The dispute between Ronaldo and Jesus has been ongoing, with earlier reports suggesting that Ronaldo might boycott Portugal duty if Jesus remained in charge. Jesus had previously managed Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, and Ronaldo had initially supported Jesus's appointment as Portugal's coach. Despite Jesus's public denial of a rift with Ronaldo, the situation remains tense.
Ronaldo revealed that he had considered retiring from international football after Portugal's last-16 exit at the World Cup, even writing a farewell letter to fans. However, he was persuaded to reconsider by FPF president Pedro Proenca during the flight home from the United States. Ronaldo remains Portugal's all-time leading scorer with 146 goals in 234 caps, records that have contributed to his legendary status.
The standoff between Ronaldo and Jesus raises questions about Portugal's future performances, particularly for Ghanaian football fans who closely follow the team. Ronaldo's availability for upcoming Nations League and World Cup qualifying assignments is uncertain, and the Portuguese Football Federation has not yet responded to requests for comment on the situation.
Ronaldo stated that once his suspension ends, he will be available to compete for the national team again, provided he remains physically fit and plays regularly for his club. The sources do not specify what punishment, if any, the FPF has decided to impose or when Ronaldo might next be considered for selection. The situation will likely continue to unfold in the coming days.
Key points
- Cristiano Ronaldo admits he deserves punishment for leaving Portugal's camp but rules out retirement.
- Ronaldo cites broken promises from coach Jorge Jesus as the reason for his walkout.
- The standoff raises questions about Portugal's future performances, particularly for Ghanaian football fans.
