Portugal coach Jorge Jesus stated that he did not learn of Cristiano Ronaldo's retirement from international duty at the same time as the public and does not feel responsible for the superstar's decision. Ronaldo announced his retirement from the Portuguese national team after a fallout with Jesus that began when the player was benched for a Nations League game.
Jesus, speaking at a press conference, expressed his respect for Ronaldo's decision and his significant international career. "I don't feel guilty about anything regarding his departure," Jesus said. "I respect his decision and, as such, his history cannot be ignored. I will never do that. Because he will always be a symbol, and I have built a strong friendship with him over this year and a half. Sporting-wise, he has now made another decision, and I greatly respect his decision."
The coach added that he did not believe he was the direct cause of Ronaldo's retirement, suggesting it was a decision that had been forming in the player's mind. "Maybe I rushed things, but not because of me. It was in his head that, with more or less call-ups, this was going to happen. It was always going to be during my tenure," Jesus explained. He also mentioned that he had not spoken to Ronaldo about the situation because he had been contemplating calling him up for future matches.
When asked about the timing of Ronaldo's announcement, Jesus stated that the player himself could best answer that question. "The absolute certainty I have is that Cris worked with me for a year. We were happy at the club where we were, we were champions. I respect his decision at this moment. He would always have been with me throughout all these years that we were going to work together. He was the one who would decide. I don't know why he made that decision. What I do know is that he knew his time was coming, he was the one who would choose. And he chose."
Ronaldo concluded his illustrious international career with a world-record 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal. He was part of the squad that won the 2016 European Championship and two Nations League titles. His final minutes for the national team came in September against Wales. Following that match, Ronaldo was benched for the game against Norway, which led to a dispute with Jesus and Ronaldo leaving the team's camp. He later issued a statement detailing his decision to retire, citing broken promises and personal reflection.
Ronaldo's statement acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, stating, "It was not an easy decision, because some decisions are not made just with the head, they are also made with the heart." He expressed pride in his international career and the memories made, emphasizing the importance of representing Portugal. "There were perfect afternoons and nights, there were victories I will never forget. There were defeats that even today I find hard to remember. I also failed, I also suffered, there were also moments when I was not able to give the Portuguese people what they so desired. But I never gave up. And above all, I never stopped feeling proud to represent Portugal."
The departure follows an incident where Ronaldo was left on the bench against Norway, a situation he reportedly felt was handled improperly by Jesus. Ronaldo claimed a promise was broken regarding his playing time, leading to his premature departure from the team's camp. Despite being fined and technically suspended by the Portuguese FA, the ban was backdated, making him available for future games, though he has now opted to retire.
The highlight of his Portugal career was lifting the 2016 European Championship.
Cristiano Ronaldo has called time on his illustrious international career with Portugal on Thursday.
Jorge Jesus, pictured at a press conference on Friday, said he did not feel guilty about Cristiano Ronaldo's international retirement.
