Cristiano Ronaldo revealed he has left Portugal’s camp after coach Jesus Jorge confirmed that he would be benched again for the Thursday clash against Denmark. On last Thursday, Ronaldo started and played 67 minutes in 1-0 win against Wales.
After the match, Jorge said he planned for Ronaldo to play but not start against Norway. The veteran went straight down the tunnel from the substitute’s bench after not playing in 2-1 win against Norway on Sunday.
Ronaldo announced his exit in a statement on Wednesday but revealed he would explain the reasons for his decision “in due course.”
“After the press conference of the national team, and following a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have made the decision to leave the national team training camp,” Ronaldo posted in Portuguese on Instagram.
“In due course, I will tell all the Portuguese people the truth about the reasons that led me to leave the national team, to which I always dedicated myself.
“Now is the time to wish Portugal and all my teammates good luck, without exception.”
The Portugal federation said the team remains focused on the upcoming fixture against Denmark.
“The entire delegation remains fully focused on the national team’s upcoming fixtures and on achieving our goals,” the federation said.
Jorge had earlier said that he would play Ronaldo if he needed him and he would bench him if he is not needed.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen in the game,” Jesus said. “If we need [Ronaldo] to play [at some point], he’ll play. If not, he won’t.”
Jesus did not apologize for telling Ronaldo that he was likely to play.
“I can promise whatever I want; I’m the coach,” Jesus said. “No player will ever make a decision for me.”
Portugal will also host Norway on Sunday.
