Cristiano Ronaldo remains welcome in the Portugal national team and could return if he decides to, head coach Jorge Jesus has said.
The 41-year-old captain left Portugal’s Nations League camp after being an unused substitute in the 1-0 win over Norway and subsequently learning that he would not start against Denmark.
Ronaldo, who plays for Al-Nassr, has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal — both world records.
Following his departure from the national team camp, Ronaldo posted on social media: “In due course, I will tell the truth to all the Portuguese people about my reasons for leaving the national team, to which I have always been dedicated.”
Jesus had previously indicated that he would address the situation after Portugal’s final Nations League match against Norway on Sunday. The defending champions won 2-1 to secure their place in the quarter-finals.
Jesus, who previously coached Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, said: “If he wants to, he’ll return to the national team.
“We can talk before the next call-up, but Cris is the one who’s going to decide.
“Cristiano should end his time in the national team the way he wants, he’s the one who will decide how he wants it.
“In my first call-up, I said, ‘I need you, I need you to be close to me, playing or not playing, I need you’. And now I’m saying the same thing.”
Portugal will host Denmark in their next Group A4 fixture on 14 November before travelling to face Wales three days later.
Why Ronaldo left Portugal camp
Ronaldo started Portugal’s opening 1-0 victory over Wales but was left on the bench against Norway. He was told he could potentially be introduced later in the game.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward was reportedly unhappy after being asked to warm up during the second half without eventually being brought onto the pitch.
It was the first time since 2008 that Ronaldo had been an unused substitute for Portugal in a competitive international match.
When Jesus later confirmed that Ronaldo would also not start against Denmark, the veteran forward left the national team camp.
Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner and one of the greatest players in football history, has helped Portugal win Euro 2016 and two UEFA Nations League titles.
