Cristiano Ronaldo has left Portugal’s international camp, shortly after head coach Jorge Jesus denied reports of a disagreement between the pair.
The 41-year-old forward was named in Portugal’s squad for the current international break and started the opening Nations League match against Wales.
However, Ronaldo was an unused substitute during Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway on Sunday. He also did not join his team-mates in acknowledging the travelling supporters after the final whistle, instead heading straight to the dressing room.
His absence sparked reports that he was unhappy with Jesus, who had previously worked with Ronaldo at Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr.
Jesus rejected suggestions of a falling-out before Portugal’s Nations League match against Denmark.
“There was no incident whatsoever,” Jesus said.
He explained that Ronaldo had been told before the Norway match that he would not start but could potentially come on during the game.
“Afterwards, as coach, I decided not to bring him on. It’s nothing to make a fuss about,” Jesus added.
The Portugal boss also denied reports that Ronaldo had refused to train on Tuesday. He said the forward had instead been completing individual mobility and strengthening exercises and was expected to return to normal training.
Ronaldo nevertheless left Parken Stadium in Denmark alongside two members of Portugal’s backroom staff before later confirming his departure from the national team camp on Instagram.
“After the press conference of the national team and following a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have decided to leave the national team training camp,” Ronaldo wrote.
“In time, I will tell all the Portuguese the truth about the reasons that motivated me to leave.”
He also wished his team-mates good luck for their upcoming fixtures.
Ronaldo had previously suggested that he was considering retiring from international football after the World Cup this summer, but decided to continue as he attempts to reach 1,000 career goals.
Portugal’s Football Federation confirmed Ronaldo’s departure, saying the remaining 24 players would continue preparations for their upcoming matches.
“The entire delegation remains totally focussed on the national team’s next fixtures and on achieving the established objectives,” the federation said.
