Cristiano Ronaldo, the 41-year-old forward of the Portugal national team, left the national team camp on Wednesday after Jorge Jesus, the head coach, announced in a press conference that Ronaldo would not be in the starting lineup for the match against Denmark in the UEFA Nations League.
Reasons for Leaving the Camp
This action came amid reports of a disagreement between Ronaldo and the team's head coach, but Jesus has denied this. He acknowledged that the team captain was disappointed about being benched during Portugal's victory over Norway on Sunday, but emphasized that no incident had occurred regarding this matter.
Ronaldo stated in an Instagram message that he would explain the reasons for his departure from the camp to the people of Portugal "in the future." He wrote: "After the national team's head coach's press conference and after a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, I decided to leave the camp," adding that he has always dedicated himself to the national team.
Ronaldo's Message to the National Team
He also announced: "Now is the time to wish success to Portugal and all my teammates, without exception." The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) also confirmed that the five-time Ballon d'Or winner has left the camp and preparations for Thursday's match in Copenhagen will continue without him.
It is still unclear whether Ronaldo's departure will extend beyond this international period. In Wednesday's press conference, Jesus said that Ronaldo would be on the bench and might enter the field as a substitute. He stated: "I don't know what will happen in the game. If we need him, he will play. If not, he won't play."
Ronaldo was a starter in Portugal's 1-0 victory over Wales last Thursday but was substituted in the 67th minute and had no role in his team's 2-1 victory over Norway in Oslo. Portugal currently leads Group A4 of the Nations League with six points from two matches, three points ahead of Denmark and Norway.
This news comes as Ronaldo's longtime rival, Lionel Messi, is set to play his last match for Argentina next week. Ronaldo also mentioned earlier this year that this season in the Saudi Professional League will likely be his last season in his professional career.
