Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has released an official statement explaining his decision to leave the national team’s UEFA Nations League camp following a disagreement with head coach Jorge Jesus.
The Nigeria Intercept had previously reported on the situation involving the five-time Ballon d’Or winner and his national team coach on the eve of Portugal’s third UEFA Nations League group game.
In a statement released today, Ronaldo revealed that the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) had previously approached him about reconsidering his decision to retire from international football. He also explained his role in Jorge Jesus’ appointment.
“As promised, I want to explain directly what happened at the last national team camp.
“After the World Cup, the FPF President insisted I reconsider leaving and asked my opinion on the current coach. I said he would be the right choice.”
Ronaldo said his frustration reached a breaking point after he was promised playing time by Jesus, but the promise was not fulfilled.
“In August, the coach told me I was fundamental to his project: I’d play the first and last games. He suggested I skip the away trips, but I refused: a captain doesn’t stay home. Simão Coutinho witnessed it.
“On the day of the Norway game, he asked if I was ready to play 30 minutes. It wasn’t in the plan, but I said yes. I warmed up from half-time and was never called upon. He had broken his word. Not greeting the fans afterwards was my fault, and I apologise.”
According to Ronaldo, the two later agreed on how the incident would be addressed publicly, but he claimed that agreement was not honoured.
“Forty-eight hours later, with Coutinho present, we agreed he would tell the truth in the press room: the plan was his, I never asked for minutes, and making me warm up without playing was a mistake. He asked me for a hug and promised. I approved a short document with those notes.
“That morning I had told the President and the coach: if you don’t want me, just tell me. Both said no.
“The press conference had nothing to do with what we agreed. I heard an aggression I did not deserve. It was the second time he broke his word.
“In almost 25 years I have never interfered in a technical decision. But when my word is broken, my place is not there.”
Ronaldo apologises to teammates
The Portugal captain also apologised to his teammates for leaving the camp and rejected suggestions that he is preparing to retire from international football.
“I apologise to my teammates for leaving. The responsibility is mine alone. The FPF should punish me with no mitigating circumstances; as captain, that’s an aggravating factor.
“There are talks of farewell games. But I learned, when I was hungry, that nobody gives anything to anyone. The national team, for me, means competing.
“When my father died, I stayed until the next match was over. I did that for my country.
“If I’m fit, after my suspension, I’ll be available, as always, to compete and win for Portugal.
“This is the absolute truth.”
Portugal have made a perfect start to their 2026/27 UEFA Nations League campaign, winning all four of their matches so far: 1-0 against Wales, 2-1 against Norway, 4-2 against Denmark and 2-1 against Norway in their latest game. The four wins have taken Portugal to the top of Group A4 and secured their place in the quarter-finals with two games still to play. They will next face Denmark at home on November 14, before travelling to play Wales on November 17.
