CORNERFLICK
Cristiano Ronaldo has left Portugal’s camp and said he will explain why at a later date, after several days of speculation around his relationship with coach Jorge Jesus.
What Ronaldo said
The 41-year-old posted a statement on Instagram after Portugal coach Jorge Jesus’ press conference and a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation. Ronaldo said he would share the “truth of the reasons” for his decision with the people of Portugal at the right time.
He did not name anyone or spell out a dispute.
What happened in camp
The move came after Portugal’s 2-1 win over Norway, when Ronaldo stayed on the bench and did not get on the pitch. Jesus had said before the match that he planned to give Ronaldo minutes, but the game did not allow it.
Ronaldo then worked separately in the gym during some training sessions. Jesus played down the issue in his press conference and said Ronaldo had not refused to train.
Portugal’s federation confirmed Ronaldo missed the final training session, but gave no official reason.
Ronaldo remains Portugal’s all-time record holder with 146 goals and 234 caps. He ended his statement by saying he still wishes the team and his team-mates success.