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Portugal manager Jorge Jesus has revealed he attempted to persuade Cristiano Ronaldo to change his mind after the striker announced his retirement from international football. Ronaldo’s departure follows a fallout with Jesus and a record-breaking career spanning 234 appearances and 146 goals.
A Sour Departure and Disciplinary Action
Ronaldo walked out on the Portugal squad ahead of a Nations League match against Denmark in September. The decision followed a dispute over Jesus going back on his word and leaving him on the bench for a clash with Norway. In the aftermath of the incident, the Portuguese Football Federation handed the 41-year-old a €255 fine and a 30-day ban.
Despite the suspension, Ronaldo was still widely expected to be named in the upcoming squad for matches against Denmark and Wales. However, the Al-Nassr forward ultimately chose to walk away from the national team completely.
Jesus Responds to the Decision
As reported by 101 Great Goals, Jorge Jesus stated that the retirement was entirely the player’s choice. Speaking to Channel 11, the Portugal boss explained that he held discussions with the veteran forward to try and keep him on the team.
Jesus told Channel 11: “All this is his decision. We had the opportunity to talk about it. I asked him to continue, to continue with me because I needed him to be next to me, but I have to accept his decision.”
Praising the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star, Jesus called him a world reference, a symbol for Portuguese youth, and a crucial figure in the nation’s history. He noted that a large image of Ronaldo has been placed in the auditorium to maintain his presence for young players.
Ronaldo’s Farewell Message
Ronaldo announced his retirement via a video posted on Instagram and X just before Jesus was scheduled to name his next squad. The player reflected on wearing the number 7 shirt for 23 years, calling it both a privilege and a responsibility.
The forward stated: “Today, the time has come to pass it on to the future. It was not an easy decision. Because some decisions are not made with the mind alone. They are also made with the heart.” He added that his journey, which began in August 2003, was about connecting with people and bringing the Portuguese diaspora closer to home.
Ronaldo also acknowledged his shortcomings during his time with the national team. He admitted to making mistakes, suffering through difficult defeats, and occasionally failing to deliver what the fans wanted, while emphasizing that he never stopped feeling proud to represent Portugal.
Ronaldo concluded his statement by expressing his belief in the next generation of players, stating that a country that continually creates new heroes will never stop believing in itself.
