The Opponent Speaks Candidly About Ronaldo After Past Issues Before Leaving Portugals National Team - Thairath English

The 'adversary' has spoken frankly about Cristiano Ronaldo after previous issues before his departure from the Portugal national team.

On 5 Nov 2026 GMT+7, Jorge Jesus, the current coach of Portugal and former adversary of Cristiano Ronaldo, gave his first interview since the 41-year-old star announced his official retirement from the national team, ending a 23-year legacy (2003–2026).

Cristiano Ronaldo decided to leave the Portugal national team camp after being told by coach Jorge Jesus that he would not start in the UEFA Nations League match against Denmark on 1 Oct.

Previously, Ronaldo was furious after being benched in the UEFA Nations League game where Portugal defeated Norway 2-1 on 27 Sept, marking the first time in his 18-year international career that he did not play.

This incident led to him missing three training sessions and withdrawing from the camp before the last two matches of the previous international window, choosing to fly from Portugal to Spain by private jet.

Although the Portuguese Football Federation later allowed Ronaldo a 30-day retroactive suspension and fined him only 255 euros (approximately 9,606.11 baht), meaning he would not miss any matches if recalled to the national team, he ultimately chose to retire from the 'Seleção'.

Recently, Jorge Jesus, who had a strained relationship with Ronaldo, spoke about his former player: "Cristiano is a global icon and a role model for both Portugal and the national team."

"I have placed a large photo of him in the conference hall so that every young player can see him and take him as a daily example."

"I asked him to stay because I wanted him by my side, but I must respect his decision. He will always have a place in the hearts of the Portuguese people and will remain an icon of Portuguese football forever."