21h49 CEST
30/09/2026
Cristiano Ronaldo announced he has left Portugal's Nations League squad ahead of their match against Denmark on Thursday.
Ronaldo started for Portugal in their 1-0 win over Wales in their opening game before being taken off in the 67th minute, but was an unused substitute in the 2-1 victory against Norway.
Following that game, there have been reports of a rift between Ronaldo and head coach Jorge Jesus, who had stated before the game that he planned to use the 41-year-old at some stage.
In Wednesday's press conference, Jesus said he had already spoken to Ronaldo about his role this international break, saying he would also not play against Denmark.
The Portugal captain trained away from his team-mates on Monday and Tuesday, with media reports suggesting there was a "crisis" meeting being held between Ronaldo, Jesus and Portugal Football Federation (FPF) president Pedro Proenca to clear the air.
"After the press conference of the national team, and following a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have made the decision to leave the national team training camp," Ronaldo posted on Instagram.
"In due course, I will tell all the Portuguese people the truth about the reasons that led me to leave the national team, to which I always dedicated myself.
"Now is the time to wish Portugal and all my team-mates good luck, without exception."
Ronaldo is the all-time leading scorer in men's international football (146 goals) and is pursuing the milestone of 1,000 career goals.
Portugal will be without Ronaldo for their clash with Denmark, as well as the return fixture against Norway on October 4.
The Selecao currently sit top of Group A4 with six points from six, with Jesus making a perfect start to his tenure.