Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has left the national team camp following a reported fallout with head coach Jorge Jesus ahead of the UEFA Nations League clash against Denmark on Thursday, October 1.
Ronaldo confirmed his departure in a statement posted on social media, amid reports of tension between him and Jesus despite their successful spell together at Al-Nassr, where they won the Saudi Pro League title in the 2025-26 season.
Jesus replaced Roberto Martinez as Portugal head coach after the 2026 FIFA World Cup and started Ronaldo in the 1-0 win over Wales. However, Ronaldo was an unused substitute in Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway, reportedly leading to tension between the pair and prompting Portugal Football Federation president Pedro Proença to meet with them.
Following the meeting, Jesus confirmed that Ronaldo would start on the bench against Denmark.
“After the National Team Coach’s press conference, and following a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I made the decision to leave the National Team camp.”
“In due time, I will tell the truth to all Portuguese people about the reasons that motivated my departure from the national team, to which I have always dedicated myself.”
