Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo left the Portugal training camp ahead of their UEFA Nations League clash against Denmark, adding another dramatic turn to his international career. The footballer announced his departure on social media following a press conference by head coach Jorge Jesus. Ronaldo said that he had spoken with the Portuguese Football Federation President Pedro Proenca before deciding to leave. Though he said that he will reveal his reasons “in due time.”
“After the press conference of the National Team coach, and following a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I decided to leave the National Team camp,” Ronaldo wrote in an Instagram post.
“In due time, I will tell all the Portuguese about the reasons that motivated my departure from the national team, which I always dedicated myself to.
“Now it’s time to wish good luck to Portugal and all my teammates, without exception,” he concluded by saying.
According to reports by Marca, Ronaldo departed via a private jet and flew to Madrid. In Ronaldo’s absence, Rafael Leao will wear the No.7 shirt for the team in the clash against Denmark.
What led to Ronaldo leaving national camp?
The development came amid reports of tensions between Ronaldo and the head coach after the forward was left on the bench during the team’s 2-1 Nations League win over Norway. The head coach had previously insisted that there was no incident whatsoever between the two, and explained that the 41-year-old was disappointed after spending time warming up without being brought to the pitch.
He also confirmed that the star footballer wouldn’t start against Denmark and added that he had planned to use him as a substitute against Norway before changing his decision during the game. Notably, Ronaldo subsequently left the camp with the Portuguese federation confirming the development while the rest of the squad continued their preparations.
Needless to say, the move has raised questions about his future with the team, though there is no confirmation that he has retired from international football.
