Cristiano Ronaldo has withdrawn from Portugal’s national-team camp, saying he will explain the reasons behind his decision at a later stage.
The 41-year-old left the squad before Portugal’s Nations League meeting with Denmark, adding fresh uncertainty around his international future after several days of speculation over his relationship with head coach Jorge Jesus.
Ronaldo had been selected in Portugal’s 25-man squad for the international window and started the opening Nations League fixture against Wales. He was then left unused during the 2-1 victory over Norway in Oslo on Sunday.
After spending time warming up, the Al-Nassr forward was not introduced from the bench and went directly to the dressing room after the final whistle rather than joining the rest of the squad in acknowledging Portugal’s travelling supporters.
The episode prompted reports that Ronaldo was unhappy with Jesus, although the Portugal coach rejected suggestions of a dispute. Jesus said Ronaldo had been informed before the Norway match that he would not start and could be used later if required, but the coaching staff ultimately decided against bringing him on.
Questions continued when Ronaldo did not take part in a regular group training session on Tuesday. Jesus said the forward had instead completed an individual programme focused on mobility and strengthening and was expected to return to normal training.
However, Ronaldo was again absent from the main session in Denmark on Wednesday. Portuguese media later published footage showing him leaving Copenhagen’s Parken stadium accompanied by two members of the national-team staff.
Ronaldo subsequently confirmed on social media that, after discussions involving the Portuguese Football Federation, he had chosen to leave the camp. He said he would provide a fuller explanation to Portuguese supporters in the future and wished his team-mates well for their upcoming fixtures.
His departure comes after Jesus confirmed that Goncalo Ramos, who scored Portugal’s winner against Norway, was set to retain his place in the starting XI against Denmark. Ronaldo would only have been used from the bench if the match situation required him.
The Portuguese Football Federation later confirmed that Ronaldo had left the squad. Portugal will continue preparations with the remaining 24 players, with the federation saying the team remains focused on its forthcoming Nations League matches.
Ronaldo, who has represented Portugal for more than two decades, considered ending his international career after the summer World Cup but decided to continue. He is also pursuing the landmark of 1,000 senior career goals.