Cristiano Ronaldo has left Portugal’s national team camp, saying he will reveal the reasons behind his decision “in time.”
The 41-year-old Al-Nassr forward announced his departure following reports of tension with Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus, although the manager had earlier denied any rift with the captain.
Ronaldo was named in Jesus’ 25-man squad for the current international break and started Portugal’s opening Nations League fixture against Wales.
However, he was an unused substitute during Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway in Oslo on Sunday. Ronaldo also did not join his teammates in acknowledging the visiting supporters after the final whistle, instead heading directly to the dressing room.
The development sparked reports that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner was unhappy with the decision.
Jesus dismissed the reports, saying there had been “no incident whatsoever” and explaining that Ronaldo had been informed before the Norway match that he would not start but could be introduced later.
The manager also denied reports that Ronaldo had refused to train, saying the veteran forward had instead completed individual mobility and strengthening exercises.
Despite the explanation, Ronaldo subsequently left the team camp before Portugal’s Nations League match against Denmark.
In a statement posted on Instagram, Ronaldo said he had made the decision after speaking with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation.
“After the press conference of the national team and following a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have decided to leave the national team training camp,” Ronaldo said.
“In time, I will tell all the Portuguese the truth about the reasons that motivated me to leave.”
He wished his teammates success in their upcoming matches.
The Portuguese Football Federation later confirmed Ronaldo’s departure, saying preparations for the matches against Denmark and Norway would continue with the remaining 24 players.
Ronaldo had previously indicated that he was considering retiring from international football after the World Cup but chose to continue while pursuing his target of reaching 1,000 career goals.
His latest departure from the Portugal camp has therefore renewed speculation over his future with the national team, although no formal announcement of his international retirement has been made.
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