Cristiano Ronaldo remains in Portugal plans after shock camp exit

Cristiano Ronaldo has been told he can return to the Portugal squad after manager Jorge Jesus and Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proenca played down his surprise departure from the team’s training camp.

The 41-year-old left camp unexpectedly last week after being an unused substitute in Portugal’s victory over Norway. He had also been informed that he would not start against Denmark.

Ronaldo later posted a brief message on social media saying he would explain his decision “at the right time”, prompting speculation over whether his international career had reached a decisive point.

But Jesus said there had been no permanent break between Portugal and their long-serving captain.

“If he wants to, he will return to the national team,” Jesus told reporters after Sunday’s 2-1 Nations League win over Norway.

“We can speak before the next call-up, but the final decision belongs to Cristiano.”

Jesus, who previously managed Ronaldo at Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, said the forward remained in control of how he wanted to bring his international career to an end.

“He decides how he finishes his career with the national team,” said Jesus.

“When I made my first call-up, I told him: ‘I need you, I need you to be close to me, whether you play or not, I need you.’ And now I say the same thing.”

Federation backs Ronaldo

Proenca also sought to reduce the significance of the dispute, describing it as a temporary misunderstanding that should be dealt with internally.

“Cristiano’s presence in the national team is based on his sporting merit, and that is beyond dispute,” Proenca said in comments reported by Reuters.

“We must recognise what Cristiano Ronaldo has achieved and what he continues to achieve.”

The federation president confirmed that Ronaldo remains an important part of Portugal’s plans for the future.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is Portugal’s all-time leading scorer, with 146 goals in 234 international appearances.

Portugal, the reigning Nations League champions, have continued to perform strongly in his absence. They beat Denmark 4-2 before overcoming Norway, preserving their perfect record in Group D and securing an early place in the tournament’s quarter-finals.

Jesus expects Ronaldo to be available for the next international break if the striker decides he wants to return.

Portugal are due to host Denmark on 14 November, before travelling to face Wales three days later.