Portugal have handed Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic No. 7 shirt to Rafael Leao following the veteran forward’s departure from the national team camp.
The change was confirmed in Portugal’s revised squad list ahead of their UEFA Nations League clash against Denmark in Copenhagen on Thursday evening.
Ronaldo left the national team camp on Wednesday amid growing speculation over his relationship with head coach Jorge Jesus.
The 41-year-old later addressed the situation on social media.
He said he would reveal “the truth about the reasons that motivated me to leave” at the appropriate time.
Neither the Portuguese Football Federation nor the coaching staff has provided detailed information about Ronaldo’s exit.
The development has sparked fresh debate among supporters, especially given Ronaldo’s long-standing role as Portugal’s captain and most influential player.
Leao, one of Portugal’s key attacking stars, will now wear the famous No. 7 shirt for the Nations League fixture against Denmark.
Portugal head into the match in strong form after winning their opening two games in Group 4.
The Seleção defeated Wales and Norway to move to the top of the standings and will aim to maintain their perfect start when they face Denmark.
Attention will now remain on Ronaldo and whether he returns to the national team setup for future matches.
