Cristiano Ronaldo has left Portugal's international camp, announcing on Instagram that he will explain his reasons "in time." This follows head coach Jorge Jesus denying any rift with the captain, after reports claimed Ronaldo refused to train. Ronaldo, who considered retiring after the World Cup but continued to chase 1,000 career goals, started the opening Nations League game against Wales but was an unused substitute in the 2-1 win over Norway. He headed straight to the changing rooms at the final whistle, sparking speculation of a fallout.
Jesus stated there was "no incident whatsoever" and that Ronaldo was unhappy about warming up without playing, a normal reaction. He had informed Ronaldo pre-match he wouldn't start but might come on, yet ultimately decided against it. Jesus also dismissed claims of a training refusal, citing "mobility" and "strengthening" exercises instead. However, Ronaldo left the squad, with Portuguese media showing him leaving Parken stadium early.
In his statement, Ronaldo said he left after a conversation with the Portuguese Football Federation president, promising to tell "all the Portuguese the truth" later. He wished his team-mates luck. Goncalo Ramos, who scored the winner, is expected to start ahead of Ronaldo against Denmark. Jesus added, "If I need [Ronaldo], he'll come on. If I don't need him, he won't."