Cristiano Ronaldo Departs Portugal Training Camp Amid Managerial Dispute
The veteran forward announced his departure on social media, citing a disagreement with coach Jorge Jesus.
Cristiano Ronaldo has left Portugal's training camp following a disagreement with manager Jorge Jesus, the player announced on Wednesday.
Ronaldo, 41, stated in a social media post that he will return home after a conversation with the Portuguese Football Federation president. He vowed to "tell the truth" about the reasons for his departure.
The situation escalated after Jesus left Ronaldo on the bench for Portugal's 2-1 victory on Sunday. In a subsequent press conference, Jesus acknowledged the player was "angry" but stated there were "no issues" between them, while declining to confirm if Ronaldo would start in the upcoming match against Denmark.
Ronaldo's statement read: "After the national team coach’s press conference, and following a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have decided to leave the national team training camp. In due time, I will tell all Portuguese people the truth about the reasons that led to my departure from the national team, to which I have always dedicated myself. Now is the time to wish good luck to Portugal and to all my teammates."