Ronaldo refuses retirement as dispute with Jesus deepens

Cristiano Ronaldo signalled he is not quitting the Portugal set‑up despite a clash with head coach Jorge Jesus and on Thursday, Sept. 24, 2026 he gestured at a VAR‑cancelled goal in the Nations League clash with Wales in Lisbon.

Dispute with the coach

Fabrizio Romano reported on Tuesday that Ronaldo will not retire from the Portugal squad despite an ongoing dispute with head coach Jorge Jesus.

The report follows an story earlier that day claiming the forward had issued an ultimatum not to return while Jesus remains in charge.

Ronaldo said, "I accept, for better or worse, what they propose that I do," adding that he respects the decision but will not return for the current international window.

He confirmed he will be available for Portugal during the November break.

Norway incident and apology

Ronaldo left the Portugal camp after being an unused substitute in the 2‑1 Nations League win over Norway on Sept. 27.

Jesus admitted he had promised Ronaldo a few minutes but reversed the decision because of the match circumstances, insisting that team choices rest solely with him.

He added, "no player will ever make a decision for me."

In a statement to Romano, Ronaldo accepted responsibility, apologised to his teammates and the Portuguese people, and said the breach of trust forced him to pack his bags.

Ronaldo apologises to the national team and reopens the door for Portugal

The 41‑year‑old captain later said he deserves punishment for the breach of the coach’s trust, urging the Portuguese Football Federation to assess the consequences.

He told Romano, "The Portuguese Football Federation must assess the consequences of my actions and punish me for them."

Ronaldo highlighted his record of 146 goals in 234 Portugal appearances, describing them as world records.

He added that any sanction should not be reduced and that he has already apologised.

Jesus told reporters on Sunday that the door remains open for Ronaldo to rejoin the national side.

Ronaldo replied that, provided he is physically fit, playing with his club and scoring goals, he will be ready to compete and win for Portugal after his suspension ends.

Cristiano Ronaldo accuses Jorge Jesus of not keeping the promise

He also said, "After my suspension period ends, I will be available, as I always have been, to compete and win with our national team."

Portugal’s UEFA Nations League campaign resumes on Nov. 14 against Denmark, with the final group‑stage match against Wales set for Nov. 17.

The schedule Ronaldo will be eligible for selection once the November window opens.

A photo by Armando Franca captured Ronaldo gesturing after a VAR‑cancelled goal in the Sept. 24 match with Wales, underscoring the ongoing drama surrounding his international future.

The encounter formed part of the Nations League schedule.