Jorge Jesus has clarified that he bears no blame for Cristiano Ronaldo‘s decision to withdraw from international football.
The 41-year-old forward announced his retirement on Thursday, concluding his illustrious career with the Portugal national team, where he recorded an impressive 234 caps and 146 goals.
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His retirement news surfaced less than a month after receiving a backdated 30-day suspension and a fine of 255 euros (approximately £210) from the Portuguese Football Federation. This penalty was imposed after Ronaldo departed from the squad prior to a Nations League match against Denmark on October 1, following a disagreement with Jesus.
With the suspension served, Ronaldo was eligible to participate in upcoming games against Denmark and Wales.
When Jesus announced his squad for these fixtures on Friday, he, having previously managed Ronaldo at Saudi club Al Nassr before taking over Portugal’s coaching role in July, expressed that he felt no remorse regarding the conclusion of the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s 23-year international career.
Jesus stated: “No, maybe I rushed things, but not because of me. It was in his head, more call-ups, fewer call-ups.
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“We also talked about it a few times. And if it was going to happen. But no, I don’t feel guilty about anything regarding his departure. I respect his decision.
“And, as such, his story cannot be ignored. He will always be a symbol and I have built a strong friendship with him over this year and a half.
“Sporting-wise, he made a decision and I greatly respect his decision.”
Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football on Thursday after 234 caps and 146 goals (Getty)
The 72-year-old manager revealed that he was unaware of Ronaldo’s retirement until it was officially shared on social media, stating that had he known, Ronaldo would have been included in the squad.
“I found out when we all did,” Jesus said. “Until then, I knew nothing about it.
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“He was playing, he was scoring goals; he was one of the players on my squad list.”
Ronaldo previously accused Jesus of “breaking his word” by keeping him on the bench during a match against Norway on September 27. After he remained an unused substitute and subsequently left the team camp, tension between them arose.
Addressing the situation, Jesus stated, “All my decisions were made with the team in mind.
“As a manager, I have always defended what was best for the team. I am at peace with my decision.”
Jesus mentioned that he had not communicated with Ronaldo since the announcement on Thursday.
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In a tribute to Ronaldo, PFF president Pedro Proenca remarked, “No tribute will ever be enough to thank him for everything he has done for Portuguese football.
“Thank you for everything, captain. This is and always will be your home.”
