Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has revealed that he had anticipated Cristiano Ronaldo would return to the national team despite their highly publicized rift, but ultimately respected the veteran forward's decision to retire from international football.
Ronaldo, 41, announced on Thursday that he would not play for Portugal again, bringing an end to a record-breaking international career that ended on a bitter note.
"Of course I thought he would come back, of course I thought I would call him up, of course I thought I would speak with him, but you have to respect him," Jesus told reporters after naming his squad for the upcoming Nations League matches against Denmark and Wales.
"He decided that it was the moment to leave the national team."
A Record-Breaking Career
Ronaldo made his debut for Portugal in 2003 and went on to earn a world record 234 caps, scoring 146 goals. However, his speed and sharpness have diminished with age, and he fell out with Jesus at the end of September.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner accused the coach of broken promises after being asked to warm up during a match against Norway but not being brought on. Ronaldo immediately left the team camp and was handed a 30-day suspension and a token fine.
He later apologized, and it was rumored that he intended to return to the Portugal fold. Instead, Ronaldo announced that he had played his last match for his country.
Respecting the Decision
"Sooner or later it had to happen. He felt it was the best moment to leave, and we have to respect that, while never forgetting what he represented for Portugal," Jesus said.
The 72-year-old coach, who previously managed Ronaldo at Saudi club Al-Nassr, emphasized that the interests of the national team had always been his top priority.
"All my decisions were made with the team in mind," Jesus stated.
Looking Ahead
Portugal, who have already secured their place in the Nations League quarter-finals, will host Denmark in Braga on November 14 before traveling to Wales three days later.
Jesus has handed first call-ups to Monza striker Gustavo Varela, currently Serie A's leading scorer, and Porto right-back Alberto Costa, while Nuno Mendes and Francisco Conceicao miss out through injury.
Uncapped teenagers Rodrigo Mora and Geovany Quenda return to the squad, as does Club Brugge striker Carlos Forbs, who made his debut last year.
As Portugal moves forward without their iconic captain, the focus shifts to the new generation of talent aiming to make their mark on the international stage.
