Ronaldo Vows Portugal Return, Faults Jesus Over Trust Breakdown

Ronaldo Vows Portugal Return, Faults Jesus Over Trust Breakdown

Cristiano Ronaldo says he has no plans to retire from international football, despite leaving the Portugal squad during the current Nations League window. The 41-year-old forward confirmed in a lengthy statement issued through Portuguese media on Tuesday that he will remain available to play for his country once any disciplinary action against him is resolved.

Ronaldo said he had reached an understanding with newly appointed coach Jorge Jesus over how his playing time would be managed during the international break. According to Ronaldo, Jesus failed to honor that arrangement and instead addressed the situation combatively in a press conference, which he said broke down trust between the two. Ronaldo added that he still owes his teammates an apology and expects to face a punishment over his departure from the squad. antepost bets

The episode comes amid heightened scrutiny of veteran stars' international futures, following Lionel Messi's recent decision to step back from national team duty with Argentina. Ronaldo, Portugal's all-time leading scorer and captain, has continued to play for both his club side and the national team well into his forties, a rarity at the highest level of the sport.

Ronaldo said he intends to play one or more farewell matches for Portugal before any future retirement, signaling that his international career is not yet over. He added that he will remain available for selection provided he stays fit and in form at club level, once whatever sanction is imposed on him has been served.