Home / Sports / Ronaldo retires from Portugal after coach clash
Ronaldo retires from Portugal after coach clash
5 Nov
Summary
- Cristiano Ronaldo has retired from international soccer with Portugal.
- A fallout with new manager Jorge Jesus precipitated the decision.
- Ronaldo felt promises were broken after being benched and not used.
Cristiano Ronaldo, at 41 years old, has announced his retirement from the Portugal national team, concluding a legendary international career. The decision came as a surprise, occurring after recent tensions with the team's new manager, Jorge Jesus. Ronaldo had previously expressed intentions to continue playing until he felt he was no longer contributing.
The fallout intensified during the September-October international break. Ronaldo reportedly left the team camp after feeling that promises made by Jesus were broken. This followed an incident where Ronaldo was asked to warm up but was not substituted into a match against Norway, which Portugal won 2-1.
Jorge Jesus maintained his authority as coach, stating that no player dictates his decisions. While Jesus indicated a willingness to welcome Ronaldo back, the player's departure seems final. Ronaldo's last match for Portugal was on September 24, 2026, against Wales, where he played 67 minutes without scoring.
