NEWS
"This is the Absolute Truth": Ronaldo Releases Statement
Following his departure from the national team, CR7 now speaks out and explains his side of the story. Jorge Jesus reportedly broke his word twice.
The Ronaldo 'affair' isn't just occupying Portugal!
In a detailed statement, Cristiano Ronaldo addresses the events during the Portuguese national team's recent training camp.
He raises accusations against the team manager and explains his side of the story.
The (Translated) Statement:
"As promised, I would like to directly explain what happened during the last national team training camp.
After the World Cup, the FPF president urged me to reconsider my decision to retire and asked for my opinion on the current coach. I said he would be the right choice.
In August, the coach told me that I would play a central role in his project: I would play the first and the last game. He suggested that I could skip away trips, but I refused: A captain doesn't stay home. Simão Coutinho witnessed this conversation.
On the day of the Norway match, he asked me if I would be willing to play 30 minutes. That wasn't planned, but I said yes. I warmed up from halftime but was never substituted in. He had broken his word. My failure to greet the fans afterwards was my mistake, and I apologize for it.
8 hours later, in Coutinho's presence, we agreed that he would tell the truth in the press room: the plan came from him, I had never demanded playing time, and it was a mistake to let me warm up without bringing me on. He asked me for a hug and gave me his word. I agreed to a short document outlining these points.
That morning, I had told the president and the coach: If you don't want me, just tell me. Both said no.
The press conference had nothing to do with what we had agreed upon. I heard an attack there that I did not deserve. It was the second time he had broken his word.
In almost 25 years, I have never interfered with a sporting decision. But if a given word is broken to me, my place is not there.
I apologize to my teammates for leaving. The responsibility is solely mine. The FPF should punish me without mitigating circumstances; as captain, that is even an aggravating factor.
There is talk of farewell matches. But when I was hungry, I learned that nobody gives you anything for free. For me, the national team means facing competition.
When my father died, I stayed until the next game was over. I did that for my country.
When I am fit, after my suspension, I will be available as always to compete and win for Portugal.
This is the absolute truth."
