Cristiano Ronaldo left Portugal’s national team training camp in Copenhagen on Wednesday, departing for Madrid hours after a public dispute with head coach Jorge Jesus over his role in the squad.
Ronaldo’s departure followed his omission from the starting lineup in Portugal’s 2-1 Nations League win over Norway on Sunday, marking the first time in 18 years he had been an unused substitute for his country. Jesus later confirmed Ronaldo would not start the subsequent match against Denmark, prompting Ronaldo to announce his exit via social media. The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) confirmed his departure and stated it was reviewing potential disciplinary action under its code, which allows for suspensions of one to six months for players who "unjustifiably abandon" national team activities.
FPF officials attempted to dissuade Ronaldo from leaving as he prepared to board a private flight to Madrid. FPF President Pedro Proença and Jesus reportedly traveled to Copenhagen Airport in an effort to persuade Ronaldo to remain, but he left the camp before the scheduled training session and collected his belongings from the team hotel. The FPF did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the reported airport meeting.
Ronaldo cited Jesus’ comments in a press conference as the reason for his departure, stating he would explain his decision in due course. The FPF confirmed the 41-year-old forward had left the squad but provided no further details on his status or timeline for a return. Portugal’s match against Denmark proceeded as scheduled on Thursday.
Reasons Behind Ronaldo’s Exit
Ronaldo’s decision came after Jesus publicly confirmed he would not start the Denmark match, despite Ronaldo having started Portugal’s previous game against Wales. The coach described their Tuesday conversation as resolving any issues, calling it "water under the bridge," but Ronaldo’s subsequent actions suggested otherwise. Reports indicate Ronaldo was angered by Jesus’ remarks, which he perceived as a public dismissal of his role.
The FPF’s disciplinary code outlines penalties for players who abandon national team activities without justification. While the federation has not yet announced a decision, the potential suspension could impact Ronaldo’s availability for future international matches. The code specifies that such actions may result in a ban ranging from one to six months.
Reactions and Broader Implications
The dispute has drawn attention from Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, who discussed the matter with Ronaldo, Jesus, and Proença. The nature of his involvement—whether to mediate or simply be briefed—remains unclear. Ronaldo’s sister, Elma Aveiro, publicly criticized Portuguese media and fans, sharing a post that claimed the public "deserves mediocrity" and praising Ronaldo’s contributions to the national team.
Analysts and commentators have framed the incident as a turning point in Ronaldo’s international career. Some argue it reflects Portugal’s growing willingness to prioritize younger talent over legacy players, while others suggest Ronaldo’s frustration stems from his reduced role in the squad. The FPF has not indicated whether Ronaldo will face disciplinary action, leaving his future with the national team uncertain ahead of upcoming fixtures.
Portugal’s match against Denmark concluded in a 2-2 draw, with Gonçalo Ramos—Ronaldo’s replacement—scoring one of the goals. The result did not alter the team’s standings in the Nations League.