Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to retire from international football is entirely his own, Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has said, dismissing suggestions that their recent disagreement may have influenced the forward’s decision. Although Jesus admitted that he had urged the veteran striker to continue representing his country, he said he respected Ronaldo’s choice and would accept his decision.
Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football on Thursday (5 November) through a video shared on social media. In the recording, the Portuguese superstar read a letter addressed to his supporters, confirming the end of his career with the national team. His announcement prompted widespread discussion among football fans, particularly in light of the recent tension between the player and his coach.
The disagreement between Ronaldo and Jesus emerged during the September international break. Ronaldo was left out of the starting line-up for Portugal’s Nations League fixture against Norway and was not introduced as a substitute either. At the final whistle, while his team-mates went towards the supporters to acknowledge their presence, the forward headed straight to the dressing room.
Tensions appeared to escalate ahead of Portugal’s subsequent match against Denmark. After learning that he would again be excluded from the starting line-up, Ronaldo left the team camp in Copenhagen. He also accused Jesus of failing to honour a promise made to him. The Portugal captain later acknowledged that his own conduct had been inappropriate and apologised for his actions. The Portuguese Football Federation subsequently imposed a temporary suspension on him following the incident.
Against this background, some observers have suggested that the disagreement with Jesus could have played a part in Ronaldo’s decision to end his international career. However, the Portugal manager has made it clear that he does not consider the retirement announcement to be a consequence of their differences.
Speaking to the Portuguese Football Federation’s television channel, Canal 11, Jesus revealed that he had discussed the matter with Ronaldo before announcing his first squad selection. He said he had personally appealed to the forward to reconsider and remain involved with the national team.
‘It is entirely his decision. We had the opportunity to speak about it before the first squad announcement. I asked him to stay, to remain alongside me, because I needed him by my side. But I have to respect his decision,’ Jesus said.
Despite the recent disagreement, the Portuguese coach spoke warmly about Ronaldo’s contribution to football, describing him as an example for Portugal, the national team and the wider football community. He also highlighted the forward’s influence on younger generations, pointing out that many young Portuguese supporters regard him as an inspirational figure.
Jesus, who previously worked with Ronaldo for a year at Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, also reflected on his personal experience of working alongside the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
‘He is an example for the world, for Portugal and for the national team. He is a player who has given so much to the national side over many years. He is a symbol for young Portuguese people, and most of his supporters are young. I had the experience of working with him for a year at Al Nassr. He will always remain an exceptional example for our national team, our people and our history,’ the coach said.
Jesus has also taken a personal initiative to ensure that Ronaldo’s contribution is recognised at the Portuguese Football Federation’s headquarters. A large photograph of the forward has been placed in the federation’s auditorium, where young players, visitors and staff members can see it regularly.
Explaining the decision, Jesus said: ‘There is a large photograph of him in our auditorium so that all the young people and colleagues who come there every day can see his image.’
Ronaldo’s departure marks a significant moment for Portuguese football. Over the course of his international career, he became one of the most influential figures in the country’s sporting history, representing Portugal across generations and inspiring countless young players.
While his recent disagreement with Jesus attracted considerable attention, the coach’s comments suggest that he wants Ronaldo’s legacy to be remembered for his achievements and influence rather than their differences. His retirement may bring an end to his international appearances, but his place in Portugal’s football history is unlikely to diminish.
