Cristiano Ronaldo has apologised to Portugal supporters and teammates for leaving the national team camp, while insisting that he is not ready to end his international career.
The 41-year-old broke his silence in a lengthy public statement after a dispute with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus escalated during the latest international window. Ronaldo presented his account of private discussions about how his workload would be managed and why he departed before the camp ended.
According to GOAL, Ronaldo said the original plan was for him not to play against Norway and Denmark. The situation changed when he was instructed to warm up during the Norway match but was not brought onto the field, an episode that became central to his disagreement with the coach.
Ronaldo said commitments made during earlier discussions were not reflected in the way the matter was handled publicly. He also indicated that he was willing to accept any disciplinary sanction imposed by the Portuguese Football Federation for leaving the squad.
His apology acknowledged that his role as Portugal captain placed a greater responsibility on his conduct. The statement did not settle the central question of whether he will play for Portugal again under the current coaching arrangement.
Reports cited by GOAL said Ronaldo’s relationship with Jesus had deteriorated sharply. ESPN reported that the forward did not intend to return while Jesus remained in charge, although neither the federation nor the coach had announced a final decision about Ronaldo’s future.
Ronaldo also revealed that he had considered retiring from international football after the 2026 World Cup. He said Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença persuaded him to reconsider during the team’s return journey from the tournament.
The timing of the statement intensified global attention because it came as Lionel Messi completed an emotional farewell appearance for Argentina. European media contrasted Messi’s public send-off with the uncertainty surrounding Ronaldo and Portugal.
Ronaldo remains one of the most influential players in international football, and any extended absence would force Portugal to plan for a new leadership structure. For now, his apology has addressed the manner of his departure without resolving the dispute that prompted it.
Source: Reporting was based on GOAL. Featured image credit: AFP via GOAL.