Cristiano Ronaldo has left the Portugal national team camp with immediate effect, ending his involvement in the team’s current international assignment.
Ronaldo announced his departure on Wednesday evening following a press conference by Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus and a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation.
The 41-year-old forward said he made the decision after the developments surrounding the national team and promised to explain the reasons behind his departure at a later date.
“After the National Team coach’s press conference, and following a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have decided to leave the National Team training camp,” Ronaldo said.
The Portugal captain added that he would eventually provide a full explanation to supporters in his country.
“In due time, I will tell all Portuguese people the truth about the reasons that led to my departure from the national team, to which I have always dedicated myself,” he said.
“Now is the time to wish good luck to Portugal and to all my teammates,” he added.
According to reports from Spanish outlets, Ronaldo’s decision came shortly after Jesus addressed questions about the forward during his latest press conference.
The development follows tension surrounding Ronaldo’s role in Portugal’s most recent match. He remained on the bench for the entire 2-1 victory over Norway and was reportedly unhappy with the decision.
Ronaldo subsequently travelled with the squad to Denmark, where Portugal are scheduled to play their next Nations League match. However, he will no longer be available for the fixture following his departure from camp.
Reports said Ronaldo boarded his private jet on Wednesday evening and left for Madrid shortly after Jesus’ press conference.
Jesus, who previously managed Ronaldo at Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, had denied that there was a problem between himself and the veteran forward during the press conference.
“He has not refused to train. There is nothing wrong with Ronaldo,” Jesus said.
The Portugal coach, however, made it clear that his decision over Ronaldo’s involvement in matches would remain his own.
“I can promise whatever I want. I am the coach. I told Ronaldo he would not play. I am putting you on the bench. If I need you for 30 minutes, you will play; if not, then not. No player can change my mind. Not him, not anyone in the football world. No president. Never, absolutely nobody,” Jesus said.
The comments reportedly resulted in Ronaldo’s decision to leave the national team camp.
Ronaldo has been a central figure in Portuguese football for almost two decades and has represented the country 234 times, according to reports.
His departure comes at a significant stage of his international career, with the forward continuing to feature for Portugal despite being 41 years old.