Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo: Two icons, a glorious farewell & an acrimonious ending
Cristiano Ronaldo’s relationship with Portugal is under strain after he criticised manager Jorge Jesus in a social media statement. He described the situation as a serious breach of trust, while acknowledging his own conduct should have consequences.
The tension escalated after Ronaldo was left on the bench for Portugal’s Nations League match against Norway. He then departed the squad after learning he would not start against Denmark in November.
Ronaldo apologised to supporters and team-mates for leaving camp. He said the incident should be examined and punished, but rejected the idea that he had played his final game for Portugal.
Jesus has said Ronaldo can return if he wants to. Portuguese journalist Jose Delgado, however, believes the relationship may not recover and argues the 41-year-old no longer belongs in Portugal’s strongest starting lineup.
The article presents the dispute as a possible turning point in Ronaldo’s international career, contrasting it with a separate, celebratory farewell for another football legend. Ronaldo’s next step with Portugal remains uncertain.
Key points
- Ronaldo criticised Portugal manager Jorge Jesus after a dispute over his role.
- He left the squad after being told he would not start against Denmark.
- Jesus says the door remains open, but a Portuguese journalist doubts the relationship can be repaired.