Nations League
Ronaldo affair, Jorge Jesus reads the captain's long statement
Portugal's manager, Jorge Jesus, confirmed that he had read the nearly 2,000-word statement released by Cristiano Ronaldo, who left the training camp after remaining on the bench during the 2‑1 victory over Norway in the Nations League on September 27.
Ronaldo's statement
Cristiano Ronaldo published a statement of about 2,000 words, in which he explains his withdrawal from the national team by invoking a “breach of trust” with the manager. The text also details his apologies to teammates and the Portuguese people. The text was relayed by the Associated Press.
Ronaldo, who has scored 146 goals in 234 caps, said he would remain available to play for Portugal again if conditions allow. He added that his departure was motivated by a loss of trust, not by a fitness issue.
After his absence, Portugal won its next two matches, against Denmark and Norway, bringing the total to four consecutive victories and putting them at the top of Group A4 of the Nations League. These successes fuel speculation about a possible end to Ronaldo's international career.
Jesus studies Ronaldo's statement and considers Portugal's future
Statement from Jorge Jesus
Jorge Jesus told journalists: “I have read the statement and now I do what I do every day. I am going to the federation to work and think about the team.” He added that he did not wish to comment further on the content of the text.
During a press conference after the victory over Norway, Jesus hinted that Ronaldo could return to the national team if he wished. He affirmed that the door remains open for Al Nassr’s striker.
On Instagram, Ronaldo stated that the consequences of his action must be assessed and sanctioned by the Portuguese Football Federation, insisting that no mitigating circumstances should be applied. He reminded that as captain, he constitutes an aggravating factor.
Ronaldo's fiery exit fuels clash with Jorge Jesus
Jesus will go to the federation to work on the team lineup, while the manager and the player remain at odds over the reasons for the departure. The sports sector will closely follow the developments, and the next chapter of the Ronaldo affair will depend on the federation’s decisions. Taking stock of the situation remains essential.