The relationship between Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portugal national team, and head coach Jorge Jesus has soured, prompting Luka Modrić to speak out in support of his former Real Madrid teammate.
On Tuesday, Cristiano Ronaldo issued a blistering statement accusing Jorge Jesus of failing to honor several promises concerning his playing time and role for Portugal in the 2026–27 UEFA Nations League.
Jorge Jesus has responded with a clear message, yet the dispute has ignited widespread debate across European football, with several players weighing in. Luka Modrić has offered a strong opinion on how the Portuguese legend is being treated.
“Cristiano is the greatest player in the history of Portugal, and he deserves another farewell and another ending with the national team,” Modrić said, per Fabrizio Romano. “It’s sad to see this happening to Cristiano in his own country.”
“Still, I think they will find a solution, because Cris deserves, whether he retires or decides not to continue with the national team, to have a great farewell that reflects what he deserves. So, I don’t know exactly what happened, but I hope the situation gets resolved.”
A series of unfortunate events
Since Cristiano Ronaldo abruptly left the national team camp, speculation about his international future has intensified, with proposals for a ceremonial farewell match so fans can see their captain one last time with the squad.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal warms up as a substitute
With Jorge Jesus not fully addressing Cristiano Ronaldo’s detailed allegations, tension within the Portugal national team continues to build. While the coach previously maintained that the striker remains eligible for selection, Ronaldo’s recent words may alter that dynamic.
The next international break begins on November 9. Cristiano Ronaldo could potentially face a federation suspension by then for walking out of camp, though any disciplinary outcome will ultimately depend on the decision reached by the Portuguese Football Federation and FIFA.
