Ronaldo says Portugal coach broke promises, apologises for walkout
Cristiano Ronaldo has apologized to his teammates and fans for walking out of the Portugal national team camp following a dispute over playing time with coach Jorge Jesus. Despite the conflict, the 41-year-old forward stated he remains committed to playing for his country.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the ongoing tension between veteran star players and management in high-stakes international football.
Cristiano Ronaldo on Tuesday (October 6, 2026) accused Portugal coach Jorge Jesus of breaking his word about giving him game time in Nations League matches, but said he remained available for his country.
In a statement of nearly 2,000 words, the 41-year-old superstar apologised for walking out on the national team and said he would serve a suspension if necessary.
“I will be available, as I have always been until today, to compete and win for our national team,” Ronaldo said.
Jesus left the forward unused on the bench for a Nations League match against Norway. Before the next game with Denmark, he said Ronaldo would not start and in response the 41-year-old walked out of the national team camp.
“I owe an apology to my national team teammates for having left the camp,” wrote Ronaldo.
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