Cristiano Ronaldo left the Portugal national team training camp last week after being informed he would not start in an upcoming match. Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has indicated that Ronaldo could return to the team if he chooses to do so. The Portuguese Football Federation president, Pedro Proenca, views the situation as a misunderstanding that can be resolved internally.
Ronaldo's departure occurred shortly after Jesus confirmed during a news conference that Ronaldo would not be in the starting lineup for the match against Denmark, marking his second consecutive absence in the Nations League. Ronaldo had previously spent the entirety of a match against Norway on the bench, despite not being injured or suspended.
In an Instagram post, Ronaldo hinted at deeper issues regarding his benching and suggested he might leave the national team, which he has represented for over two decades. Reports indicate that both Jesus and Proenca attempted to persuade Ronaldo to remain with the squad at Copenhagen airport before he departed on his private jet.
Jesus stated that there is no rift between him and Ronaldo, acknowledging that Ronaldo was disappointed about not starting against Norway. Portugal won both matches against Denmark and Norway, securing a place in the quarterfinals of the Nations League.
Jesus expressed that if Ronaldo wants to return, he is welcome to do so, emphasizing the importance of Ronaldo’s presence in the team. Midfielder Bruno Fernandes also spoke in support of Ronaldo, asserting that he remains a significant figure in Portuguese football and calling for unity within the team.
Ronaldo has played only once in the Nations League this year and has indicated that this may be his final year in football. He holds the record for the most goals and appearances for the national team, with 146 goals in 234 matches. Portugal's next matches are scheduled for November against Norway and Wales, concluding their Nations League fixtures.