Jesus does not address Ronaldo’s complaints about Portugal squad

Cristiano Ronaldo left Portugal’s training camp after being an unused substitute against Norway and learning he would not start against Denmark, BBC Sport reports. Coach Jorge Jesus denied there had been a falling-out, although BBC Sport described the episode as one. [1]

Jesus said Ronaldo could return if he wanted and that they could speak before the next squad selection. BBC Sport reports ongoing talks involving Ronaldo, his representatives and the Portuguese FA. Ronaldo said he would explain his reasons for leaving the national team in due course, but did not give them in that statement. [1]

The forward has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, totals BBC Sport describes as world records. [1]

Reactions in Portugal have differed. BBC Sport reports that posters on several Lisbon billboards praised Ronaldo and criticised Jesus. Lisbon supporter Maria Ribeiro said she loved Ronaldo but wondered whether it was time for Portugal to move on. [1]

Update

Ronaldo said he was not turning his back on the national team in a statement circulated by Portuguese media, according to an ANP report carried by Nieuws.nl. He attributed his departure from Portugal’s training camp to what he said were two broken promises by coach Jorge Jesus. [2]

Ronaldo apologised for disappointing Portugal’s supporters and letting down his team-mates. He said the football federation would have to punish him and that he would accept the consequences, adding that his conduct was worse because he is captain. [2]

Update

Cristiano Ronaldo says the Portuguese Football Federation should punish him for leaving the national team’s camp. He said he had apologised to his team-mates and Portugal’s supporters, and that the decision to leave was his responsibility alone. [3]