Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has made it clear that he has no intention of apologising to Cristiano Ronaldo following the disagreement that led to the captain’s departure from the national team camp.
The dispute emerged after Ronaldo was left on the bench for the entire 2–1 UEFA Nations League victory over Norway on September 27. Jesus had indicated that he planned to bring the veteran forward into the match, but ultimately decided against making the substitution.
Ronaldo subsequently left Portugal’s training camp after Jesus announced that he would not start the following match against Denmark. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said at the time that he would reveal the reasons for his decision “in time”.
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Jesus stands by his decision
Speaking about the controversy, Jesus said he accepts responsibility for his tactical decisions but questioned why he should apologise.
“Apologise for what? To whom?” Jesus said, according to reports on his comments.
The Portugal coach maintained that his decisions were made in the interest of the team and pointed to Portugal’s results during the international break.
Jesus previously coached Ronaldo at Al Nassr and has repeatedly stressed the importance of the forward to Portuguese football. However, he has also made it clear that Ronaldo’s status will not prevent him from making decisions about team selection.
Ronaldo still welcome back
Despite the dispute, Jesus has not closed the door on Ronaldo’s return to the national team.
The coach said Ronaldo can return if he wants to continue representing Portugal and is playing for his club. The Portuguese Football Federation has also indicated that the forward remains part of the national team’s plans.
Ronaldo’s future with Portugal therefore remains in his own hands, with Jesus saying the player will ultimately decide whether he wants to continue his international career.
Portugal have continued their Nations League campaign without Ronaldo and secured their place in the quarter-finals after victories during the international window.
Ronaldo remains Portugal’s all-time leading scorer, with 146 goals in 234 appearances for the national team.
