Cristiano Ronaldo announced on Instagram that he left the Portugal national team camp in Copenhagen ahead of their UEFA Nations League fixture against Denmark, stating he will explain the reasons behind his departure in due time. The decision follows a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation and a press conference held by head coach Jorge Jesus.
Ronaldo Departs Copenhagen Camp Prior to Denmark Fixture
The 41-year-old forward released a statement on social media confirming his departure from the squad’s base in Denmark. In his post, Ronaldo wrote that following the national team coach’s press conference and a subsequent discussion with the federation president, he chose to leave the national team setup.
“The time will come when I will tell the whole truth to all Portuguese people about the reasons that led me to leave the national team, to which I have always dedicated myself,” Ronaldo wrote on Instagram. He added wishes of good fortune to his teammates for the upcoming match.
Manager Jorge Jesus Denies Locker Room Discontent
The announcement followed comments from Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus, who attempted to quell mounting speculation regarding the team dynamic during a pre-match press conference in Copenhagen. Rumors and media questions had grown after Ronaldo remained an unused substitute during Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway on Sunday.
“There was no incident,” Jesus told reporters, addressing inquiries about why the team captain did not join his teammates to applaud travelling supporters after the final whistle in Norway. The 72-year-old manager downplayed the situation, noting that competitive players rarely welcome sitting on the bench.
“Any player, and I was a player too, when you spend 20 or 30 minutes warming up and then you don’t come on, none of them are happy,” Jesus said. The coach acknowledged that he informed Ronaldo prior to the match that he would not be in the starting lineup, though he maintained the possibility of utilizing him late in the game.
“Afterwards, as a coach, I decided he wouldn’t come on. There is nothing to make an incident out of,” Jesus added.
Squad Prepares for UEFA Nations League Clash
The reigning European contenders prepared for their fixture against Denmark without their longtime captain, leaving the federation and technical staff to address questions surrounding the sudden departure on the eve of the matchday.
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