Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has opened up on why he left the country’s international camp in October.
Ronaldo explains Portugal exit
Initially, the captain of Portugal responded to the appointment of the coach, which he said he was in favor of and was fully committed to that coach’s plans. Ronaldo said Jesus had told him he would play the first and last matches of the international break for Portugal and that his time on the pitch would be limited because of his fitness.
But then, according to Ronaldo, he was not brought on when Jesus told him he had 30 minutes to play against Norway after warming up all through the second half.
“That the head coach broke his promise,” said Ronaldo.
Ronaldo eventually met up with Jesus privately and said they came to an understanding of how the incident would be explained to the public. Ronaldo said he thought the following news conference did not match that arrangement.
“No more broken promises I have decided to go camp without waiting for any more broken promises. In my opinion truth always remains the best thing in any relationship of people.”
Ronaldo confirms Portugal future
Even as the row engulfed the country, Ronaldo issued an apology to teammates and the Portuguese fans and said he had no intention of ending his Portugal career.
“If I am OK physically, playing for my club, with hopefully a few goals… I will be available,” he said.
The striker had even considered retiring after the 2026 World Cup, but was pushed to keep playing by the Portuguese Football Federation.
