Cristiano Ronaldo Leaves Portugal Camp and Says He Will Reveal the Truth ‘In Due Time’

Cristiano Ronaldo has left Portugal’s national-team camp ahead of the UEFA Nations League clash with Denmark, amid growing tension surrounding his situation with head coach Jorge Jesus.

The Portugal captain confirmed that he made the decision after speaking with Jesus and Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença.

Ronaldo announced his departure on social media, writing that he had decided to leave the camp following the national coach's press conference and a conversation with the federation president.

He added that “in due time” he would tell the Portuguese people the real reasons behind his decision, while stressing his continued dedication to the national team. He has not, however, officially announced his retirement from international football.

The situation escalated after Portugal's 2-1 Nations League victory over Norway. Ronaldo remained an unused substitute throughout the match, despite reports that Jesus had planned to use him from the bench. It was reported as the first time in 18 years that a fit Ronaldo failed to appear for Portugal in a match.

Ronaldo subsequently missed team training ahead of the Denmark game. Jesus initially denied that the forward had refused to train and said Ronaldo would take part in the next session.

But shortly after the coach's press conference on Wednesday, Ronaldo left the camp in Copenhagen. The Portuguese Football Federation confirmed his departure.

Jesus has also emphasized that decisions over team selection and playing time belong to the head coach. Meanwhile, federation president Pedro Proença had already travelled to Copenhagen for talks involving the coach and Ronaldo as tensions emerged within the squad.

Portugal began the Nations League campaign with a 1-0 win over Wales before defeating Norway 2-1. Ronaldo started against Wales but remained on the bench against Norway.

Ronaldo will therefore miss the upcoming clash with Denmark, while his statement has left questions over what comes next. For now, however, the 41-year-old has not officially confirmed an international retirement.