Cristiano Ronaldo has left Portugal’s training camp with immediate effect following comments made by head coach Jorge Jesus, according to reports.
Ronaldo announced his departure after speaking with Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença. He said he would later explain the reasons behind his decision.
The decision comes days after Ronaldo remained on the bench for the full 90 minutes as Portugal beat Norway 2-1 in the Nations League.
The 41-year-old forward had been expected to play against Norway but was not introduced. Gonçalo Ramos scored the winner for Portugal.
Ronaldo was also absent from Portugal’s training session ahead of Thursday’s meeting with Denmark, with reports saying he had left the team camp.
Jesus had previously denied any disagreement with Ronaldo and said the player was willing to accept the coach’s decisions. However, he confirmed Ronaldo would not start against Denmark.
Speaking at his press conference, Jesus said:
“He has not refused to train. There is nothing wrong with Ronaldo,” Jesus began.
He then explained his authority over team selection:
“I can promise whatever I want. I am the coach. I told Ronaldo that he would not play. I am putting you on the bench. If I need you for 30 minutes, you will play; if not, then not. No player can make me change my mind. Not him, not anyone else in the football world. No chairman. Never, absolutely nobody.”
Ronaldo subsequently confirmed his decision to leave the national team camp.
“After the press conference of the national team, and following a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have decided to leave the national team training camp. In time, I will tell all the Portuguese the truth about the reasons that motivated me to leave the national team, to which I always devoted myself. Now is the time to wish Portugal and all my teammates good luck, without exception.”
Ronaldo’s departure means he will not feature in Portugal’s upcoming Nations League match against Denmark.
He has made 234 appearances for Portugal, making him the country’s most-capped player.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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