Cristiano Ronaldo quits Portugal training camp and will miss Denmark match

Cristiano Ronaldo has left Portugal’s national team training camp and will not play in the match against Denmark scheduled for 2 October at 12:15 am IST, he announced on Instagram after speaking with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation. His post came after a press conference by Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus.

Ronaldo confirmed his departure from the squad but did not set out the specific reasons for the decision in the post. The announcement followed a period of concern after Ronaldo was named on the bench for Portugal’s game against Norway, having featured in the prior win over Wales.

Ronaldo wrote: “After the National Team coach’s press conference, and following a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, I (Ronaldo) decided to leave the National Team’s training camp.” The forward stated he had made a firm decision to leave the camp and declined to provide further explanation at this time.

He added a pledge to reveal his reasons later, writing: “In due time, I will tell all Portuguese people the truth about the reasons that led me to leave the national team, to which I have always dedicated myself.” Ronaldo concluded his Instagram message with: “Now is the time to wish Portugal and all my teammates, without exception, good luck.”

Prior to Ronaldo’s Instagram post, Jorge Jesus said the player might have been disappointed by what occurred against Norway. According to the report, Jesus had initially decided Ronaldo would not play in that match but then asked him to warm up during the game.

The article states Ronaldo warmed up for about 30 minutes during the Norway match yet did not enter the game. The same report says the forward’s relationship with coach Jorge Jesus has broken down, a situation it links to his decision to leave the national team camp.

Portugal are due to face Denmark on 2 October at 12:15 am IST; Ronaldo will be absent from the squad for that fixture.