Portugal head coach, Jorge Jesus, has said he was unaware of Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to retire from international football until the announcement became public, revealing that the veteran forward was still part of his plans for the national team.
The 41-year-old Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football in an Instagram video on Thursday, a day before Jesus was scheduled to announce his squad for Portugal’s Nations League fixtures this month.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Jesus, according to BBC Sport, said the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star did not notify him of his decision before making it public.
“I found out when we all did. Until then, I knew nothing about it,” Jesus said.
“He was playing, he was scoring goals; he was one of the players on my squad list.”
Ronaldo had become eligible for selection again after completing a 30-day suspension from international duty, although the ban did not affect any national team matches.
The Al-Nassr forward had earlier left Portugal’s camp in September after learning he would not start the Nations League encounter against Denmark four days later.
The departure triggered a disagreement between the player and Jesus, with Ronaldo accusing the coach of breaking his promise.
However, the forward later acknowledged that he deserved punishment for leaving the camp prematurely. At the time, he maintained that he had no plans to retire from international football.
Jesus appeared visibly irritated when reporters raised the issue during Friday’s press conference, insisting that his decisions were guided by the team’s interests.
“All my decisions were made with the team in mind,” he said.
“As a manager, I have always defended what was best for the team. I am at peace with my decision.”
Ronaldo’s last appearance for Portugal was in the country’s 1-0 victory over Wales in Lisbon, three days before he remained an unused substitute against Norway on September 27.
The legendary forward finished his international career with 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, setting world records in both categories.
He was also instrumental in the country’s triumph at the 2016 European Championship.
Meanwhile, Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença has paid tribute to the former captain, describing his impact on Portuguese football as immeasurable.
“No tribute will ever be enough to thank him for everything he has done for Portuguese football, for Portugal,” Proença said.
He noted that the most fitting way to celebrate Ronaldo’s legacy would be to adopt his ambition, winning mentality and determination to remain at the highest level of the game.
“Thank you for everything, captain. This is and always will be your home,” he said.
Ronaldo’s retirement marks the end of an illustrious international career that began with his Portugal debut in 2003, making him one of the most decorated players in the history of international football.
