Nations League: Ronaldo leaves Portugal training camp - Punch Newspapers
Portugal's forward #07 Cristiano Ronaldo reacts after losing the 2026 World Cup round of 16 football match between Portugal and Spain at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington on July 6, 2026. (Photo by RONALDO SCHEMIDT / AFP)
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his departure from the Portugal national team training camp following a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation. The veteran forward said his decision came after the national team coach’s press conference, although he did not immediately disclose the specific reasons behind his departure. As reported by football transfer expert on Wednesday, the Portuguese was quoted as saying, “After the National Team coach’s press conference, and following a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have decided to leave the National Team training camp,” Ronaldo said. The 41-year-old said he would explain his reasons at a later date, insisting that his commitment to Portugal had always remained strong. “In due time, I will tell all Portuguese people the truth about the reasons that led to my departure from the national team, to which I have always dedicated myself,” he said.See more Punch stories on Google.Add Punch on Google Ronaldo also wished the national team and his teammates well following his decision to leave the camp. Portugal boss denies ‘rift’ with Ronaldo EPL: Everything Guardiola said about Man City’s 115 charges – Report Haaland, Gyokeres, Wissa, 11 other EPL players who scored on international duty “Now is the time to wish good luck to Portugal and to all my teammates,” he added. The announcement comes as Portugal prepares for its upcoming international commitments, with Ronaldo’s departure likely to generate significant attention ahead of the team’s next fixtures. Further details about the circumstances surrounding his decision are expected to emerge when Ronaldo provides his promised explanation. PUNCH Online had reported that Portugal coach Jorge Jesus insisted on Wednesday that there was no rift between him and Cristiano Ronaldo, but the 72-year-old did acknowledge that his captain had been disappointed to remain on the bench in the side’s Nations League win over Norway. https://punchng.com/portugal-boss-denies-rift-with-ronaldo/ Gilbert Ekugbe Gilbert Ekugbe is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over a decade of experience reporting on business and economic affairs. He covers markets, corporate developments, finance, and Nigeria’s broader economic landscape. His reporting is informed by extensive newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accuracy and responsible journalism, helping readers understand complex business issues.
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