Portugal Coach Jorge Jesus to Bench Cristiano Ronaldo Against Denmark

Portugal’s coach Jorge Jesus has decided not to start Cristiano Ronaldo in their upcoming Nations League match against Denmark. This follows similar treatment in their previous game against Norway, where Ronaldo remained on the bench throughout.

Jesus explained that the decision was agreed upon with Ronaldo as part of managing the player’s physical condition. Ronaldo, now 41, has a demanding schedule and rarely trains fully on the days following a game. The coach said he told Ronaldo in advance that he would not play in the first two matches of this international window, but could come on later if needed. However, during the Norway game, Jesus decided not to bring him on.

After Jesus’s press conference, Ronaldo left Portugal’s training camp in Copenhagen. The Portuguese Football Federation confirmed his departure but did not give a reason. Ronaldo posted on social media that he would explain his reasons in due time and wished good luck to his teammates and the country.

Jesus denied any conflict between him and Ronaldo, saying there was “no case” to discuss. He acknowledged that any player would be disappointed to warm up and then not play, especially a player of Ronaldo’s stature. The coach emphasised that while Ronaldo is a star, every player in the squad is treated equally when it comes to team decisions.

For the Denmark match, Jesus plans to start Gonçalo Ramos, who scored the winning goal against Norway. If needed, Ronaldo could still come on as a substitute, but the coach’s message was clear: he makes the decisions about the team and lineup.

The situation leaves Ronaldo’s immediate future with the national team uncertain. He has not officially retired from international football, but his departure from the camp and the coach’s current plans suggest a reduced role for the legendary forward in Portugal’s squad.