Cristiano Ronaldo has left Portugal's international camp, citing reasons that he will disclose "in time". The departure comes after reports of a rift with head coach Jorge Jesus, who had earlier denied any issues with the team captain. Ronaldo, who had considered retiring from international football after the World Cup, was included in Jesus' 25-man squad for the current international break.
Ronaldo started the opening Nations League game against Wales but did not feature in Portugal's 2-1 win over Norway on Sunday. He also did not join his teammates in greeting visiting fans at the final whistle, instead heading to the changing rooms. This prompted reports of discontent with the manager. Jesus had told Ronaldo before the match that he would not start but might be brought on later.
Jesus dismissed reports of a rift with Ronaldo, stating that any player would be unhappy if they spent 20-30 minutes warming up and didn't get on. He also clarified that Ronaldo had done individual exercises for mobility and strengthening on Tuesday, but would train normally on Wednesday. Jesus emphasized that his decision not to bring Ronaldo on was nothing to make a fuss about.
Despite Jesus' assurances, Ronaldo did not join his teammates on the pitch in Denmark. Portuguese media shared a video of him leaving the stadium alongside two backroom staff members. Later, Ronaldo announced his departure from the national team training camp on Instagram, stating that he would reveal the reasons for his decision in time.
Ronaldo's departure comes as a surprise, given his commitment to chasing down 1,000 career goals. He had considered retiring from international football after the World Cup but opted to continue. Jesus had also expressed his desire to have Ronaldo on the team, stating that there was still room for him.
Goncalo Ramos scored the winner against Norway, and Jesus indicated that he would again be preferred to Ronaldo against Denmark. Jesus stated that he would bring Ronaldo on if needed, but not if he didn't require him. This approach may have contributed to Ronaldo's decision to leave the camp.
Ronaldo's decision to leave the camp has sparked speculation about his future with the national team. He wished his teammates good luck in their forthcoming games and promised to reveal the reasons for his departure in time. The Portuguese Football Federation is yet to comment on the situation.
Key points
- Cristiano Ronaldo leaves Portugal's international camp amid reported rift with coach Jorge Jesus
- Jesus denies any issues with Ronaldo, stating that the player's departure was not a big deal
- Ronaldo's reasons for leaving the camp will be disclosed "in time"
