Cristiano Ronaldo Apologizes for Leaving Portugal Camp, Accuses Coach Jorge Jesus of Broken Promises

Cristiano Ronaldo apologized on Tuesday for leaving Portugal’s training camp last week and for failing to greet supporters after a Nations League match against Norway, while accusing head coach Jorge Jesus of breaking agreements with him, according to Reuters and USA Today.

The 41-year-old forward said in a lengthy statement that he had expected to sit out the Norway and Denmark fixtures as part of a fitness-management plan, according to Reuters. He said he was later told on the day of the Norway game that he would play for about 30 minutes, warmed up from halftime, and was not brought on.

Dispute over a promised public explanation

Portugal beat Norway 2-1 on Sept. 27, with Ronaldo as an unused substitute, and he left the field area at the final whistle without acknowledging traveling fans, according to USA Today. He departed the camp in Copenhagen on Sept. 30, a day before Portugal played Denmark, according to USA Today.

Ronaldo said a later meeting with Jesus, attended by Al Nassr sporting director Simao Coutinho, produced an agreed set of points for the coach to state publicly, according to Reuters. He said the coach’s subsequent public remarks did not match that discussion. Jesus denied on Sunday that such an agreement had been made, but left open the possibility of Ronaldo returning, according to Reuters. The Portuguese Football Federation did not immediately respond to a request for comment, according to Reuters.

Ronaldo said he should face whatever punishment the federation decides and that his role as captain made his conduct more serious, according to Reuters. He added that he hopes to be available for selection again after any suspension, provided he is fit and playing for his club. USA Today reported that Ronaldo has made 234 appearances for Portugal and is the all-time leading scorer in men’s international soccer with 146 goals.

Reporting based on coverage by Reuters and USA Today.