Portugal Coach Jorge Jesus Denies Rift with Cristiano Ronaldo After Bench Decision

Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has firmly denied any existing rift with captain Cristiano Ronaldo, addressing rumors surrounding the star forward’s training participation and recent benching.

The Al-Nassr forward was absent from Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway in Oslo on Sunday, notably skipping the customary post-match walk to greet the visiting supporters alongside his teammates.

Instead, the former Real Madrid and Manchester United star headed straight to the dressing room, a move that subsequently fueled speculation of discontent with the head coach.

Speaking to the media ahead of Portugal’s Nations League clash with Denmark on Thursday, Jesus dismissed the rumors, stating, “There was no incident whatsoever.”

“Any player—and I speak from experience as a former player myself—understands the frustration of spending twenty or thirty minutes warming up only to end up not playing. Naturally, no one is happy in that situation.”

Jesus clarified that he had informed Ronaldo prior to kickoff that he would start on the bench, though he might be called upon later in the match.

“Ultimately, as the coach, I decided not to bring him into the game. It is a standard tactical decision and nothing to make a fuss about,” he added.

The former Benfica manager also dismissed suggestions that Ronaldo had refused to train on Tuesday, clarifying that the 41-year-old was instead following a tailored individual program focused on mobility and strengthening exercises. He confirmed that Ronaldo was expected to rejoin normal team training on Wednesday.

However, Ronaldo did not join his teammates on the pitch in Denmark, with Portuguese media capturing footage of him leaving Parken stadium accompanied by two members of the backroom staff.

Reports also indicated that Ronaldo’s private jet was en route to Copenhagen.

After Goncalo Ramos scored the winning goal against Norway, Jesus confirmed that the AC Milan striker would retain his starting spot ahead of Ronaldo for the match against Denmark.

“If everything goes according to plan, Goncalo will get the start,” Jesus stated.

“If the tactical situation calls for it, Ronaldo will come on. If not, he won’t,” he added.

Source link