Jorge Jesus has insisted Portugal remain united despite Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure from the national team camp, with the manager refusing to let the controversy derail their Nations League campaign.
Ronaldo left Portugal’s training camp on Wednesday after discussions with Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward announced his departure on Instagram, bringing an unexpected twist to Portugal’s latest international break.
Ronaldo started Portugal’s 1-0 victory over Wales last Thursday but was left on the bench for the subsequent 2-1 win against Norway on Sunday. He did not feature in that match before leaving the camp.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Ronaldo’s exit, Portugal responded strongly on the pitch.
Jesus’ side returned to action with a convincing 4-2 victory over Denmark on Thursday, making it three consecutive wins and keeping them at the top of Group A4.
With another meeting against Norway coming up on Sunday, Jesus is determined to keep the focus firmly on football.
“I do. There’s nothing that should stop the group from being with me,” Jesus told Sport TV, in quotes reported on Sapo when asked about whether he feels the group is with him after the Ronaldo case.
“I understand the question. The important thing is what we have to do. The things that happen don’t separate the group, they haven’t separated us and they won’t separate us.”
The Portugal boss was also asked whether Ronaldo would be welcomed back should the veteran forward decide he wanted to return to the squad.
Rather than dwell on the issue, Jesus pointed to Portugal’s latest performance and urged attention to the team’s progress.
“A high-quality victory, with four goals, a top-level performance. It can’t be overlooked, it’s more important than everything that happened.
“That’s what I want to focus on. Returning to Portugal, the people will fight at the Dragao stadium.”
The result against Denmark gives Portugal further momentum heading into the next stage of their Nations League campaign.
For Jesus, the immediate priority appears clear: keep the squad together, maintain their position at the top of the group and prepare for another demanding fixture against Norway.
Ronaldo’s status remains a major talking point around the Portuguese team, but Jesus has made it clear that the events away from the pitch will not be allowed to overshadow what his players are producing on it.
Portugal now turn their attention to Sunday’s clash with Norway, with Jesus looking to extend their winning run and keep the team’s Nations League momentum intact.
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