Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly set a condition for any future return to the Portugal national team, insisting that head coach Jorge Jesus must leave his position first.
The Portugal captain dramatically exited the national team camp ahead of the country’s UEFA Nations League fixtures against Denmark and Norway.
The 41-year-old’s departure followed a reported disagreement with Jesus after he was left on the bench throughout Portugal’s match against Croatia.
Ronaldo subsequently returned to his club, Al Nassr, in Saudi Arabia, with speculation continuing over his international future.
According to reports from CNN Portugal, the veteran forward has informed those close to the national team that he will only consider returning if Jesus is no longer in charge.
The dispute has reportedly caused a complete breakdown in the relationship between the pair, with little indication that reconciliation is possible.
Jesus, who recently took charge of the Portuguese national team, has faced scrutiny over his handling of Ronaldo, one of the country’s greatest-ever players and all-time leading goalscorer.
Ronaldo’s absence did not prevent Portugal from securing a 4-2 victory over Denmark, with goals from João Cancelo, Gonçalo Ramos, Vitinha and João Félix helping the team claim an impressive result.
The situation now raises further questions about Ronaldo’s international future and whether Portugal’s football authorities will be forced to address the growing tension between the player and the coach.
For now, Ronaldo remains with Al Nassr, while Portugal continue preparations for future fixtures under Jesus.
