Cristiano Ronaldo has abruptly left Portugal’s national team camp ahead of the Nations League match against Denmark.
Ronaldo announced his decision after a press conference from Portugal coach Jorge Jesus. The 41-year-old forward said he also spoke with Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença before leaving.
“After the National Team Coach’s press conference, and following a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I made the decision to leave the National Team camp,” Ronaldo posted on X.
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The announcement came after a tense period surrounding Ronaldo’s role under Jesus. The coach recently said Ronaldo would not start against Denmark, adding to speculation around their relationship.
Ronaldo did not feature in Portugal’s recent win over Norway. Jesus had indicated that Ronaldo could enter from the bench but ultimately did not use him.
Cristiano Ronaldo promises to reveal reasons for departure
Ronaldo did not explain exactly why he decided to leave the squad. Instead, he promised to address the situation publicly later.
“In due time, I will tell the truth to all Portuguese people about the reasons that motivated my departure,” Ronaldo wrote.
He also wished Portugal and his teammates well before ending his statement.
“Now is the time to wish good luck to Portugal and to all my teammates, without exception,” Ronaldo added.
The situation is notable because Ronaldo recently spoke positively about his international future. Last week, he said discussions with Jesus and the Portuguese federation had convinced him to continue playing for Portugal.
Ronaldo also said he still believed he could help the national team. He entered the current international period with 146 goals for Portugal and 234 appearances.
Jesus became Portugal’s head coach in July after Roberto Martínez left following the team’s World Cup exit. Ronaldo played under Jesus at Al-Nassr last season before the coach took the national-team job.
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The timing of Ronaldo’s departure now creates uncertainty around his immediate international future. Portugal faces Denmark in the Nations League on Thursday.
Ronaldo has not announced his international retirement. Instead, his statement indicates he intends to explain his decision at a later date.
For Portugal, the immediate focus shifts toward the Denmark match. For Ronaldo, attention will remain on his promised explanation and his relationship with Jesus.
