Cristiano Ronaldo has apologised for leaving the Portugal national team camp but says coach Jorge Jesus broke promises that led to his decision. The 41-year-old forward explained his side of the dispute in a lengthy statement released on Tuesday.
Ronaldo said Jesus initially agreed to manage his workload during the international window. According to Ronaldo, the plan meant he would miss the matches against Norway and Denmark. However, the coach later told him he could play 30 minutes against Norway.
Ronaldo Explains Why He Left the Camp
Ronaldo said he warmed up from half-time during the Norway match but never entered the game. He viewed that decision as the first broken promise from Jesus.
The Portugal captain then discussed the situation with the coach. Ronaldo said they agreed that Jesus would clarify the matter during a later press conference.
According to Ronaldo, an eight-point document outlined their understanding. It stated that he had not demanded playing time and had respected the coach’s decisions. Ronaldo said Jesus’ public comments later differed sharply from what they had discussed privately.
He described this as the second breach of trust and decided to leave the training camp before Portugal’s match against Denmark.
Ronaldo Accepts Responsibility
Despite criticising Jesus, Ronaldo accepted responsibility for walking out. He apologised to his teammates and Portuguese supporters.
Ronaldo also acknowledged that his position as captain made the incident more serious. He said the Portuguese Football Federation should assess his actions and impose any appropriate punishment.
The Portuguese Football Federation had not immediately responded to Ronaldo’s statement when the initial reports appeared. Ronaldo, however, made clear that he still wants to represent Portugal.
Jorge Jesus Rejects Ronaldo’s Account
Jesus has disputed Ronaldo’s version of the agreement. After Portugal’s victory over Norway, the coach said he had not made such an agreement with the player. He also indicated that Ronaldo could return to the national team.
On Wednesday, October 7, Jesus confirmed that he had read Ronaldo’s statement but chose not to comment further. He said his focus was on working with the national team.
Portugal Football Federation president Pedro Proença has also previously said Ronaldo remains part of the national team as long as he maintains the sporting level required by the coach.
Ronaldo Leaves Door Open for Portugal Return
Ronaldo has not announced his international retirement. Instead, he said he would remain available for Portugal if he stays fit, performs well for Al Nassr and serves any suspension imposed by the federation.
The latest comments therefore leave the situation unresolved. Ronaldo and Jesus have given different accounts of their discussions, while Portugal must now manage the dispute ahead of its next international fixtures.
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