Cristiano Ronaldo explains his side of spat with Portugal coach while keeping door open to return
Cristiano Ronaldo has released a statement clarifying his recent departure from the Portugal national team camp following a disagreement with coach Jorge Jesus. Despite the tension, Ronaldo expressed his desire to continue playing for his country.
Why it matters
As one of the world's most famous athletes, Ronaldo's relationship with national team management has significant implications for international football.
Cristiano Ronaldo is not done with Portugal's national team and said in a lengthy statement that he will remain available to the squad, while providing new details surrounding his unexpected departure f rom the club and the seeming rift between himself and coach Jorge Jesus.
All of it came to a head last week when the 41-year-old footballer departed the national team camp in the middle of a slate of UEFA Nations League matches. The surprising move came after he went unused as a substitute in the 2-1 win over Norway on sept. 27, which Ronaldo said in the statement was Jesus breaking his word to him.
Despite the drama, Ronaldo is still hoping to play for the national team and get one final farewell before the curtain closes on his soccer career.
Also covering this story
16 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
Lionel Messi prepares for his final match for Argentina - AP News
Cristiano Ronaldo: Portugal forward not retiring but says he wants to be punished for 'breach of coach's trust'
Ronaldo says he's not retiring but deserves 'punishment' over Portugal walkout
Messi bids Argentina farewell after last match
Messi readies for final farewell in Argentina send-off
Messi farewell under threat of chaos: Benin says "the Argentines love dirty play"
Ronaldo apologizes to team and supporters for walkout
What's next for Messi after Argentina retirement? His career is not over yet
Messi's Farewell Match: How to Watch the Argentina vs. Benin International Friendly for Free
Cristiano Ronaldo: Portugal star breaks silence over national team walkout in statement
Messi set for emotional Argentina farewell in Buenos Aires friendly vs Benin
Cristiano Ronaldo accuses coach Jesus of broken promises but leaves Portugal return open
Emotion, tears as Messi retires from Argentina national team
Lionel Messi set for 'Last Tango' with Argentina as Cristiano Ronaldo pouts on Portugal sidelines - thenationalnews.com
Why Dybala and Molina are blocked from Messi’s farewell despite 2022 squad invite
Watch fans arrive LIVE at Messi's last Argentina match
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in