Cristiano Ronaldo has broken his silence over his decision to leave the Portugal national team camp, saying he remains available to represent the country despite the dispute with head coach Jorge Jesus.
The 41-year-old forward explained that he left the squad after what he described as two occasions in which Jesus broke agreements concerning his involvement in Portugal’s Nations League matches. Ronaldo also apologised to his teammates and Portuguese supporters for his decision to leave the camp.
Ronaldo said Jesus had initially presented a plan in which he would miss the matches against Norway and Denmark as part of a programme to manage his fitness. According to the Portugal captain, the coach later told him he could play 30 minutes against Norway.
Ronaldo said he warmed up during the second half of Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway but was ultimately not brought onto the pitch. He described the incident as a broken promise and said a later agreement was reached for Jesus to explain the situation publicly.
According to Ronaldo, an eight-point document was prepared after discussions involving Jesus and Al Nassr sporting director Simao Coutinho. Ronaldo said the document stated that he had never demanded playing time and had respected the coach’s decisions.
Jesus has disputed Ronaldo’s account, saying he did not make such an agreement with the veteran forward. However, the Portugal manager has previously left the door open for Ronaldo to return to the national team.
Ronaldo also accepted responsibility for leaving the squad and apologised for failing to greet Portugal supporters after the victory over Norway. He said the Portuguese Football Federation should assess and, if necessary, punish his actions, particularly because he is the national team captain.
Despite the dispute, Ronaldo made clear that he has not retired from international football. He said he would remain available for Portugal if he is fit, performing well for Al Nassr and after serving any suspension that may be imposed.
The forward also rejected suggestions that his international career was now limited to a farewell appearance. Ronaldo said he expects to have one or more farewell matches eventually, but stressed that his immediate focus remains competing and winning for Portugal.
Ronaldo is Portugal’s record goalscorer and most-capped player, with 146 goals in 234 international appearances. His latest statement leaves open the possibility of a return, although the dispute with Jesus and any disciplinary action by the Portuguese Football Federation could determine when that happens.