Ronaldo Walked Out Of Portugal Camp — Now His Own Manager Says The Door Is "Open" And He Has A "Truth" To Tell
Cristiano Ronaldo left Portugal camp after being benched and promised to tell "the truth" about why. Now Jorge Jesus says the door is open. Here's the full drama.
Stop scrolling, because one of the biggest names in football history just stormed out of an international camp — and promised to "tell the truth" about why. Yes, really.
Here's where things stand after a very dramatic few days for Portugal.
The Walkout
According to BBC Sport, 41-year-old captain Cristiano Ronaldo left Portugal's Nations League camp after being an unused substitute against Norway, then learning he wouldn't start against Denmark either.
The BBC adds that he was apparently angered at being made to warm up in the second half and then not brought on. It was reportedly the first time he'd been an unused sub for his country in a competitive game since 2008.
Then came the social media post. Ronaldo wrote: "In due course, I will tell the truth to all the Portuguese people about my reasons for leaving the national team, to which I have always been dedicated."
"In due course." "The truth." We are NOT okay.
The Manager Responds
Boss Jorge Jesus, who also coached Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, was relaxed about it all. "If he wants to, he'll return to the national team," Jesus said, per BBC Sport.
He added that the pair can talk before the next call-up, and that "Cris is the one who's going to decide." He also said he told Ronaldo from his very first call-up that he needs him close, "playing or not playing."
Meanwhile, Portugal beat Norway 2-1 on Sunday to seal a place in the Nations League last eight. Per the BBC, that puts the defending champions six points clear of Denmark in Group A4.
The Teammates Had THOUGHTS
Nobody in the squad is slamming the door:
- Joao Cancelo called Ronaldo "the best player Portugal has ever had" and said things will "certainly end in the best way."
- Nuno Mendes said that if Ronaldo returns, the squad will be there "with open arms."
Also worth noting, per the BBC: AC Milan striker Goncalo Ramos has scored in all three starts with Ronaldo out of the team. We're just reporting the stat, okay?
The Comeback Rumor
Sky Sports' Monday paper round-up says talkSPORT is tipping Ronaldo to return for a "last dance" with Portugal next year despite the bombshell exit. That's a newspaper report, not confirmed, so file it under rumor mill for now.
The Tea ☕
- Ronaldo left Portugal camp after being benched, then told he wouldn't start against Denmark.
- He's promised to reveal his "truth" about why "in due course."
- Jesus and his teammates say the door is wide open, but it's Ronaldo's call.
Next up: Portugal host Denmark on 14 November, then visit Wales three days later. Will the captain be there?
Ronaldo holds the world records for both caps (234) and goals (146) for his country, plus five Ballon d'Ors and a Euro 2016 title. That's quite the legacy to be deciding how to close out.
So what's your verdict: should Ronaldo come back for one last dance, or has the moment passed? And what do you think his "truth" is? Sound off below.
Sources: BBC Sport | Sky Sports
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