Cristiano Ronaldo and the Portugal national team are at the centre of football discussions after the captain abruptly left the squad ahead of Thursday’s UEFA Nations League match against Denmark.
Ronaldo confirmed on Wednesday, September 30, that he had left Portugal’s training camp following a press conference by new head coach Jorge Jesus and a conversation with Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença.
“Following the national team manager’s press conference, and after a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have decided to leave the national team’s training camp,” Ronaldo said.
The 41-year-old added that he would explain the reasons for his decision to Portuguese supporters “in due course.”
The controversy follows Ronaldo being left on the bench throughout Portugal’s 2-1 Nations League victory over Norway on September 27. Jesus subsequently indicated that Ronaldo would not start against Denmark.
Jesus has denied that there was a major incident between them, saying there was “no incident whatsoever.” He explained that Ronaldo’s playing time was being managed, although reports indicate that the decision had created tension around the squad.
The developments have also revived questions about Ronaldo’s international future.
Just one week earlier, Ronaldo admitted he had considered retiring from international football after the 2026 World Cup but said he had decided to continue because he believed he could still contribute to Portugal.
“I feel I can still help the national team,” he said at the time.
