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Ronaldo leaves Portugal camp after clash with coach Jesus ahead of Nations League match
Ronaldo leaves Portugal camp after clash with coach Jesus ahead of Nations League match
Cristiano Ronaldo left Portugal’s national team camp in Copenhagen on Wednesday after a conflict with head coach Jorge Jesus, departing via private jet to Madrid ahead of Thursday’s Nations League match against Denmark.
Ronaldo announced his exit on social media minutes after Jesus told reporters the 41-year-old would train with the squad, despite missing three consecutive sessions. In his statement, Ronaldo said he decided to leave after Jesus’ press conference and a conversation with Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença. “At the appropriate time, I will tell all Portuguese the truth about the reasons that led me to leave the national team, to which I have always dedicated myself,” he wrote. “Now is the time to wish Portugal and all my teammates, without exception, good luck.”
Jesus had stated earlier that Ronaldo would not start against Denmark, following his omission from the squad in Sunday’s 2-1 win over Norway—a match Ronaldo watched from the bench without playing. The coach insisted there was no dispute, saying, “It seems like there’s a problem between us, but there isn’t. I’m the one who makes the decisions, and everyone knows that.” He added that Ronaldo had signaled cooperation, telling him, “If you want me to play, I’ll play. If you want me on the bench, I’ll be there. If you want me in the stands, I’ll go.”
Portuguese media reported Ronaldo’s sister, Elma Aveiro, criticized the team’s treatment of her brother on Instagram, writing, “CR7 deserved more respect.” The federation confirmed Ronaldo’s departure but said preparations for the Denmark match would continue as planned. Ronaldo, Portugal’s all-time leading scorer with 146 goals in 234 appearances, had started the Nations League opener against Wales but was substituted after 67 minutes in a 1-0 win.
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