Portugal coach Jorge Jesus said he "found out when we all did" about Cristiano Ronaldo's retirement from international football. The 41‑year‑old announced his decision in an Instagram video on Thursday, the day before Jesus was due to name his squad for the Nations League fixtures.
Speaking at Friday's news conference, Jesus emphasized that Ronaldo gave no prior notice and he was prepared to select the in‑form Al‑Nassr forward. Ronaldo had returned after a 30‑day suspension that did not include any national team matches, and he left the Portugal camp in September after being told he would not start against Denmark. He noted that Ronaldo had been playing and scoring goals, remaining on the squad list.
Ronaldo’s final appearance came three days earlier as an unused substitute against Norway, after a 1‑0 win over Wales in Lisbon, taking his record to 146 goals from 2003 debut, a men’s world record. He also helped Portugal win Euro 2016.
PFF president Pedro Proença pledged to honour the former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward, saying his boundless ambition and will to be the best will always be celebrated.
Source: BBC Sport Football · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing