Cristiano Ronaldo’s international career ended this week after he announced his retirement with pride, and a quiet acceptance that the moment had arrived. On Thursday the 41-year-old announced he was handing back Portugal’s number 7 shirt after 234 caps and a record 146 goals. The next day, national-team coach Jorge Jesus spoke about it for the first time. He said that the Portugal star would leave when he felt he wasn’t relevant to the team. Jesus has been consistent in his public comments. He told reporters he had asked Ronaldo to stay, that he still planned to call him up for the November Nations League fixtures, and that he learned of the retirement video at the same time as everyone else
Jesus said “He always said he would leave when he felt he was no longer relevant to the team. I think he felt the time was right, and I respect him for accepting that. I asked him to continue with me because I needed him by my side, but I have to accept his decision,”. Later he added, “Maybe I rushed things, but not because of me. I don’t feel guilty about anything regarding his departure.”
Jorge Jesus pays tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo despite Portugal fallout
The two men had history as they worked together at Al-Nassr before Jesus took the Portugal job. The relationship soured during the September international break when Ronaldo was left unused against Norway after warming up, then left camp ahead of the next match. After which a 30-day suspension followed. Ronaldo later said the coach had broken his word twice. Jesus maintained every decision was made for the team.
Despite the incident, the coach’s words this week have been measured and respectful. He described Ronaldo as “a global icon” and “a symbol for Portuguese youth,” noting that he had ordered a large photograph of the player placed in the national team’s auditorium so younger players would see it every day. “He will always remain in the hearts of the Portuguese people. There is no going back on that.” Jesus said.
Ronaldo’s retirement came this week without a farewell match. In a video message he spoke of 23 years of privilege and responsibility, of decisions made with both head and heart, and of a journey that began in 2003. He leaves as the most-capped and highest-scoring player in men’s international football, a Euro 2016 winner, and a two-time Nations League champion.
