Portugal coach Jorge Jesus says Cristiano Ronaldo remains free to return to the national squad if that is what he wants.
The 41-year-old skipper departed the Nations League camp after staying on the bench against Norway and learning that he would not be in the starting line-up against Denmark.
Al-Nassr attacker Ronaldo has registered 146 goals across 234 appearances for Portugal, with both figures standing as world records.
Following his departure, he posted on social media: “When the time is right, I will explain to the Portuguese people why I left the national team, a side to which I have always given my full commitment.”
Jesus had consistently maintained that he would address the situation after Portugal completed their four Nations League fixtures against Norway on Sunday. The defending champions secured a quarter-final place with a 2-1 win.
Jesus, who previously coached Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, said: “He can come back to the national team if he wishes.
“We may speak before the next squad is selected, but the final choice belongs to Cris.
“Cristiano deserves to conclude his international career on his own terms, and he will determine how that happens.
“When I first selected the squad, I told him, ‘I need you beside me, whether you are on the pitch or not.’ My position has not changed.”
Portugal will welcome Denmark in their next Group A4 fixture on 14 November before travelling to face Wales three days afterward.
Ronaldo was in the starting team for the opening 1-0 victory over Wales, but he began the Norway match on the bench and was told that he might not be used. He was reportedly frustrated after warming up in the second half without being sent onto the field.
It marked the first occasion since 2008 that the former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward remained an unused substitute for Portugal in a competitive fixture.
The experienced forward then withdrew from the camp after Jesus revealed at a press conference that he would also be left out of the starting side against Denmark.
AC Milan striker Goncalo Ramos has found the net in each of his three starts while Ronaldo has been absent from the line-up.
After Sunday’s triumph over Norway moved Portugal six points ahead of second-placed Denmark, goalscorer Joao Cancelo told RTP: “Cristiano is our captain and the finest player Portugal has ever produced.
“I am confident his situation will reach a positive conclusion, although our four victories are what matter most.”
Nuno Mendes also said: “Every player selected for the national side is welcomed. Should Cris come back, we will be ready to greet him warmly.”
Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has played a key role in Portugal’s Euro 2016 success and two Nations League triumphs.
What do you feel about this post?
Like
Love
Happy
Haha
Sad
