Lisbon: Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has accused head coach Jorge Jesus of breaking his word twice, saying a failed agreement over publicly explaining his omission from the match against Norway led to his departure from the national team camp.
Ronaldo said he remained available to represent Portugal despite the dispute and any disciplinary action that could follow.
In a lengthy statement, the 41-year-old forward gave his account of the events that led to his departure from the team’s camp in Copenhagen ahead of Portugal’s Nations League match against Denmark last week.
Ronaldo said the disagreement centred on an understanding with Jesus that his absence from the Norway match would be publicly explained. According to Ronaldo, that agreement was not honoured, prompting him to leave the camp.
The veteran forward stressed that his decision to leave did not mean he was turning his back on the national team. He said he remained committed to Portugal and available for selection after serving any punishment imposed on him.
The dispute has added tension around the Portugal squad as the team continues its Nations League campaign.
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