Ronaldo Reportedly Leaves Portugal Camp After Being Benched
Veteran forward’s international future uncertain after conflict with manager Jorge Jesus.
Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly left the Portugal national team camp after being an unused substitute in a Nations League match, a situation that has cast doubt over his international future. The 41-year-old forward was not brought off the bench for Portugal’s Nations League victory over Norway on Sunday, marking the first time in 18 years he had not played for his country when available.
Ronaldo subsequently missed training on Tuesday and met with manager Jorge Jesus to discuss the situation. The forward has played 234 times for Portugal, scoring 146 goals.
This development comes as Lionel Messi is preparing for a farewell international friendly for Argentina. While Messi appears at peace with his decision to step away from international play, Ronaldo is reportedly frustrated by his diminishing role. Some observers believe Ronaldo has remained in the starting lineup for too long, playing more on past reputation than current form. It is suggested that Ronaldo is aiming to reach 1,000 career goals, a milestone that some players from previous eras claimed to have achieved through unofficial matches.
His club career since December 2022 has been with Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League. Previously, he departed Manchester United, stating he felt betrayed by the club.
Former Portugal manager Roberto Martinez reportedly kept Ronaldo in the team for the 2022 World Cup and the recent summer tournament, despite controversy and divisiveness surrounding his selection. Portugal was eliminated in the Round of 16 by Spain at the latter tournament, after being considered among the favorites.
Ronaldo had considered international retirement after the 2022 World Cup but decided to continue playing. While he was a significant player in his prime, often considered second only to Messi, he has been a diminished figure for some time. His past reputation, it is argued, is no longer enough to secure him a place.
Jesus had indicated that Goncalo Ramos, who plays for AC Milan, would start ahead of Ronaldo in a recent Nations League match against Denmark. This decision appears to have been a catalyst for Ronaldo's departure from the camp. The article suggests that time catches up with all players, regardless of their greatness, and hopes Ronaldo finds acceptance, similar to Messi, before his legacy is further tarnished.
