Cristiano Ronaldo has launched a scathing critique against Portugal coach Jorge Jesus, alleging that the manager twice broke his word and forced his departure from the national team camp in Copenhagen. The 41-year-old forward detailed the sequence of events leading up to his exit ahead of the UEFA Nations League fixture, claiming a breakdown in communication and trust ruined his international involvement.

According to Ronaldo's extensive statement, an initial plan had been agreed upon allowing him to skip matches against Norway and Denmark to properly manage his physical condition. However, on the day of the Norway encounter, the coach allegedly informed him that he would be utilized for a 30-minute spell. Ronaldo spent the second half warming up only to remain on the bench, an outcome he described as a blatant breach of agreement.

Following the incident, a subsequent meeting involving Al Nassr sporting director Simao Coutinho purportedly established a framework for Jesus to clarify the situation publicly. An eight-point document was reportedly prepared to establish that Ronaldo never demanded playing time and respected managerial authority. Nonetheless, the coach's public remarks allegedly bore no resemblance to their private understandings, prompting the player's abrupt exit.

While apologizing to supporters for failing to acknowledge them after the match and accepting that his leadership role makes his actions subject to strict review, Ronaldo maintained his commitment to the national setup. He asserted that once any potential suspension imposed by the Portuguese Football Federation is served, he intends to remain available for selection if his physical and sporting form permits.

Source: www.aljazeera.com