Fernandes praises Ronaldo and calls for unity after Portugal camp exit

Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has denied a rift with captain Cristiano Ronaldo after the forward was left on the bench for Sunday’s 2–1 win over Norway. Ronaldo went to the changing rooms after the match rather than joining his team-mates in greeting the visiting fans, prompting reports that he was unhappy with the coach. Speaking before Thursday’s Nations League match against Denmark, Jesus said: “There was no incident whatsoever.” [1]

Jesus said he had told Ronaldo he would not start against Norway but might come on, before deciding not to use him. “It’s nothing to make a fuss about,” he said. [1]

Jesus also rejected suggestions that Ronaldo had refused to train on Tuesday, saying he had been doing individual mobility and strengthening exercises. Jesus expected him to train normally on Wednesday, but Ronaldo did not join his team-mates on the pitch in Denmark that day. Jesus said Gonçalo Ramos, who scored the winner against Norway, would play against Denmark if plans held, with Ronaldo coming on only if needed. [1]

Update

Ronaldo said in an Instagram statement reported by ANP that he decided to leave after a press conference by Portugal coach Jorge Jesus and a conversation with the president of the Portuguese football federation. He said he would explain his reasons later and wished his team-mates well. [2]

Jesus had earlier said nothing was wrong. He left Ronaldo on the bench for Portugal’s 2–1 win away to Norway on Sunday, although the forward warmed up. [2]

Update

Bruno Fernandes has called for an end to divisions over Cristiano Ronaldo, saying his Portugal team-mate will always be the greatest symbol of the national team, Portuguese football and the country. In remarks carried by Nieuws.nl in an ANP/AFP dispatch on 3 October, Fernandes said he had spoken with Ronaldo and urged people to stop sowing division. [3]