Cristiano Ronaldo’s international future has come under scrutiny after the Portugal captain abruptly left the national team’s training camp in Copenhagen on Wednesday.
The 41-year-old forward departed just one day before Portugal’s Nations League match against Denmark, following comments from coach Jorge Jesus about tensions between the pair.
Ronaldo later confirmed his decision in an Instagram post, saying he had made the decision after Jesus’ press conference and a conversation with Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) president Pedro Proenca.
Ronaldo Says He Will Reveal the Reasons
Ronaldo said he would explain the reasons for his departure “in due course” and wished Portugal and his teammates success in the upcoming fixtures.
He added that he had always remained fully committed to the national team.
The FPF confirmed that Ronaldo had left the camp but said preparations for the matches against Denmark and Norway would continue with the remaining 24 players.
Jorge Jesus Denies Training Dispute
Jesus had addressed questions about Ronaldo shortly before the forward left the camp.
The Portugal coach denied that Ronaldo had refused to train and said the veteran striker was expected to participate in the session.
Jesus also rejected suggestions that there had been a major incident between them.
He said he had spoken with Ronaldo after being asked about an issue but insisted that there was no significant dispute.
Ronaldo Was Unused Against Norway
The latest development follows an unusual situation during Portugal’s 2-1 Nations League victory over Norway on Sunday.
Jesus had initially indicated that Ronaldo would come off the bench but ultimately chose not to introduce him during the match.
Ronaldo subsequently trained in the gym rather than with the main squad on Monday and Tuesday, despite not being injured.
Jesus acknowledged that Ronaldo was unhappy with him but suggested the matter had already passed.
Questions Over Ronaldo’s International Future
Ronaldo’s departure has raised questions about whether his remarkable international career could be approaching its conclusion.
He remains Portugal’s record goalscorer with 146 goals and the country’s most-capped player with 234 appearances.
The incident also comes only two matches into Jesus’ tenure as Portugal coach. Jesus replaced Roberto Martinez following Portugal’s disappointing World Cup campaign.
Portugal Continue Preparations
Portugal’s squad later arrived at their hotel without Ronaldo and Jesus.
The FPF said the remaining players would remain focused on the team’s upcoming fixtures and their objectives.
Portugal are scheduled to face Denmark on Thursday, followed by a home match against Norway on Sunday, as attention now turns to the team’s preparations without its long-serving captain.