Ronaldo Criticizes Jorge Jesus for Broken Promises
October 8, 2026 · Rebeca Salazar
Cristiano Ronaldo has publicly criticized coach Jorge Jesus for not keeping his promises, while also apologizing to his teammates for leaving the Portugal national team unexpectedly.
Ronaldo Criticizes Jorge Jesus for Broken Promises
According to Vnexpress.
Background
Ronaldo's situation with Jorge Jesus could influence his role in the Portugal National Team moving forward, especially as they prepare for matches against Norway, Denmark, and Wales in the Nations League. The dynamics between player and coach will be closely watched as Portugal looks to assert itself in international football.
Why this matters
Cristiano Ronaldo's public criticism of Jorge Jesus highlights ongoing tensions within the Portugal National Team, particularly as they prepare for crucial Nations League matches. Ronaldo's disappointment stems from unmet expectations, which could impact team morale and cohesion as they aim for success in international competitions.
Key Takeaways
- Ronaldo Criticizes Jorge Jesus for Broken Promises.
- Cristiano Ronaldo has publicly criticized coach Jorge Jesus for not keeping his promises, while also apologizing to his teammates for leaving the Portugal national team unexpectedly.
- Cristiano Ronaldo remains central to Bồ Đào Nha's plans.
Despite his criticism of Jesus, Ronaldo admitted his own fault in leaving the national team camp. "I owe my teammates an apology for leaving the training camp," he confessed. "Even though my trust in the coach's word has been completely shattered, something that anyone who witnessed our exchanges can confirm, I still should not have done that. The responsibility lies entirely with me."
Ronaldo also apologized to the Portuguese fans and emphasized how a broken promise has had a significant impact on him. The 41-year-old forward acknowledged the possibility of facing disciplinary action from the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) and stated that he did not believe there should be any mitigating circumstances in the punishment. "I am not an ordinary player. I am the captain, which only increases my responsibility," he wrote.
The controversy began on September 27, when Ronaldo was not utilized in Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway. Following the match, Jesus indicated he had initially planned to bring Ronaldo off the bench but changed his mind due to the flow of the game. Two days later, Ronaldo trained separately, even though he was not injured. By September 30, he unexpectedly left the national team's base in Copenhagen after speaking with FPF President Proenca. He subsequently missed the matches against Denmark and Norway on October 4. Ronaldo currently holds the record with 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal. Despite the tensions with the head coach, Ronaldo asserts that he has no intention of ending his international career. "If I am fit and able to play for my club and score goals, I hope that after serving any potential punishment, I will still be ready to compete and win with the national team," he wrote, revealing that President Proenca had urged him to continue representing the team beyond the 2026 World Cup.
At the end of his letter, Ronaldo dismissed the possibility of a premature farewell match with the national team, reiterating his desire to continue playing for Portugal. "I have heard a lot about farewell matches, that I deserve a proper send-off, and that the FPF wants to give me that opportunity," he stated. "I can promise the fans, especially the Portuguese fans, that we will have one or more farewell matches. But there will be time for that. When I think about the national team, what I really think about is competing."
Ronaldo also recalled how he stayed with the national team despite receiving news of his father's passing, stating, "That is also something I thought about on the day I was informed of my father’s death. I was with the national team and decided to stay until after the next day’s match. I have given my country things that I will never do for any club."
Portugal has won all four matches in their recent international camp and has already secured a place in the Nations League quarter-finals. They still have two group stage matches remaining, facing Denmark on November 14 in Braga and traveling to Wales on November 17. Following their victory over Norway on October 4, FPF President Proenca suggested that the incident with Ronaldo was merely a misunderstanding. Meanwhile, Coach Jesus has firmly refused to apologize but stated that the door to the national team remains open for the 41-year-old forward.
What happens next
With Ronaldo expressing his readiness to continue representing Portugal, the focus will shift to how Jorge Jesus addresses these criticisms and whether he can mend the relationship with his star player. The upcoming Nations League fixtures will be critical for both Ronaldo and the Portugal National Team as they seek to navigate this internal conflict while striving for victory.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Cristiano Ronaldo criticize Jorge Jesus for?
Cristiano Ronaldo criticized Jorge Jesus for breaking promises made to him on two occasions regarding his playing time.
Who confirmed the conflict between Ronaldo and Jesus?
Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed the conflict in a detailed letter shared on his social media accounts.
Why is Ronaldo speaking out about Jorge Jesus now?
Ronaldo is speaking out now to clarify the reasons behind his recent conflicts with Jesus during the Portugal national team's preparations.
What changes were expected after the match against Norway?
Following the match against Norway, both parties agreed on a plan to resolve the matter, with Jesus expected to make certain statements during a press conference.
What was Ronaldo's readiness regarding the national team?
Despite his issues with Jorge Jesus, Ronaldo confirmed his readiness to represent Portugal and apologized to his teammates for leaving the national team camp without prior notice.
