After Ronaldo Crisis Meeting: Portugal Coach Speaks Out
After the Portuguese superstar had to stew on the bench in the Nations League match against Norway, a clarifying discussion took place between the forward and his head coach.
Cristiano Ronaldo's omission from Portugal's Nations League match against Norway (to the match report >>>) caused a stir in his home country.
The forward was reportedly anything but happy about it and had not trained with the team since – now, according to Portuguese media reports, a clarifying discussion took place between the superstar and Portugal's national coach Jorge Jesus.
This apparently went successfully.
"There Are No Problems"
According to the report by the Portuguese newspaper "A Bola", this proceeded to the satisfaction of all involved. Association president Pedro Proença also reportedly travelled specifically to mediate between the parties.
Jesus himself has since commented on the matter after the meeting. "Cristiano Ronaldo did not refuse to train with the team. There are no problems," said the 72-year-old.
"Cristiano told me: 'If you want me to play, I'll play. If you want me on the bench, I'll do that. And if you want me in the stands, I'll be there'," he added.
Ronaldo Remained on the Bench for 90 Minutes
The trigger for Ronaldo's dissatisfaction was apparently initially Jesus's announcement not to use the 40-year-old in the match against Norway (2-1).
The coach explained that he didn't want to overstrain his veteran. Later, however, he informed Ronaldo that he should come on for about 30 minutes after halftime.
Although Ronaldo warmed up, he ultimately remained on the bench for the entire match. The superstar had not experienced 90 minutes without playing for the Portuguese national team in 18 years. After the final whistle, Ronaldo visibly annoyed went straight to the dressing room.
Without Ronaldo, Portugal celebrated a 2-1 victory against Norway, with his replacement, Goncalo Ramos, scoring the winning goal. Jorge Jesus's team leads Group 4 of UEFA Nations League A with six points ahead of Norway and Denmark.
