Cristiano Ronaldo explains his departure
By OnzeActu · · 5 min read

Cristiano Ronaldo spoke at length about his controversial departure from the Portugal national team gathering, citing a dispute with coach Jorge Jesus. In a widely followed statement, he apologized to his teammates and supporters, and clarified his desire to continue to wear the Portuguese jersey.
Why it matters
The departure of Cristiano Ronaldo from the national team gathering has raised concerns about his commitment to Portugal, especially as the next Nations League football games approach. By clarifying his position, Ronaldo reaffirms his desire to continue playing for his country, which is crucial for the team as they seek to qualify for the final stages of the competition. His experience and leadership remain essential for the national team, especially in moments of tension.
Context
Cristiano Ronaldo, with his 146 goals in 234 appearances, is the top scorer in the history of the Portuguese national team. His role within the team is of paramount importance, especially with the challenges ahead in the Nations League. The dynamic between him and the new coach, Jorge Jesus, will be closely scrutinized by fans and football experts.
Key points
- Cristiano Ronaldo explains his departure.
- Cristiano Ronaldo spoke at length about his controversial departure from the Portugal national team gathering, citing a dispute with coach Jorge Jesus.
- Cristiano Ronaldo: Portugal star breaks silence over national team walkout in statement | Soccer News | Sky Sports.
In this long text, Ronaldo returns in detail to the incident: he accuses Jorge Jesus, the new coach of Portugal, of not having respected his promises, in particular that of giving him at least 30 minutes of play against Norway - a promise ultimately not kept, since the Portuguese star did not leave the bench, despite a warm-up started at half-time. Ronaldo admits that frustration led him to not applaud the fans in Copenhagen, a gesture for which he sincerely apologizes, while emphasizing his personal responsibility.
The Portuguese captain also details a heated meeting with Jorge Jesus and Simão Coutinho, Al Nassr sporting director, following the incident. According to Ronaldo, a summary document would even have been written to clarify the misunderstandings before the leaders, but the latter deplores the gap between the coach's official speech at a press conference and their private conversation, evoking an authoritarian attitude on the part of Jesus.
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Despite these tensions and his premature departure from training, Ronaldo, top scorer in the history of men's selections (146 goals in 234 selections), insists on his loyalty to the team and apologizes to everyone: teammates, staff and Portuguese supporters, as well as to international fans disappointed by his attitude. He indicates that he accepts any sanction from the Federation, while promising that the story is not over: "I want to play more matches with the Seleção, end with a real farewell, but above all, I want to continue fighting for Portugal as long as I am able to do so."
Cristiano Ronaldo also revealed that he had already written an international retirement letter after the World Cup, on the flight back from the United States, but was convinced to continue by the president of the Portuguese Federation, Pedro Proença. Finally, he reaffirmed that he saw in Jorge Jesus the right choice to lead the Seleção, even if he bitterly regrets the turn taken by their recent exchanges.
A few hours before Lionel Messi's farewell ceremony in Argentina, the Ronaldo case reminds how the end of the career of icons marks an entire country. It remains to be seen whether the Portuguese myth will be entitled to the desired release under national colors.
The rest
Ronaldo is expected to return to the national team, provided he is fit and performing well with his club, Al Nassr. The reaction of Jorge Jesus, the coach, will also be decisive for Ronaldo's future in the team, especially after the tensions mentioned. The upcoming Nations League matches will be crucial for Portugal, and the presence of their captain could influence their chances of success.
Frequently asked questions
Why did Cristiano Ronaldo leave the Portuguese selection gathering?
Cristiano Ronaldo left the rally due to frustrations over coach Jorge Jesus' broken promise to give him at least 30 minutes of play in a match.
Who confirmed the reasons for Ronaldo's departure?
Cristiano Ronaldo himself confirmed the reasons for his departure in a message published on his social networks.
Why did Ronaldo decide to speak out now?
Ronaldo has chosen to speak out now to clarify misunderstandings regarding his commitment to the national team and to explain his behavior at the rally.
Quell
What are the consequences of the incident with Jorge Jesus?
The incident led to a heated meeting between Ronaldo, Jorge Jesus and Simão Coutinho, where a summary document was drawn up to clarify misunderstandings.
Is Ronaldo considering international retirement?
No, Ronaldo has reaffirmed that he has no plans to retire internationally as long as he is physically fit and performing well with his club.