Jesus addressed the speculation ahead of Portugal’s UEFA Nations League clash against Denmark on Thursday, explaining that Ronaldo’s absence from the starting line-up and subsequent training arrangements were part of a prior agreement.
“Cristiano Ronaldo did not refuse to train,” Jesus said. “There are no issues. Cristiano told me: if you want me to play, I’ll play. If you want me to sit on the bench, I will. If you want me in the stands, I will.”
The Portugal captain was an unused substitute in Sunday’s win over Norway, despite warming up during the match. His absence from team training in the days that followed fuelled speculation about a disagreement with the coach.
Jesus explains Ronaldo’s absence
Jesus said he had discussed the plan with Ronaldo beforehand and had informed the 41-year-old that he would not feature against either Norway or Denmark.
The coach explained that the decision was based on managing the veteran forward’s physical workload during a demanding international schedule.
Jesus also acknowledged that allowing Ronaldo to warm up against Norway, despite knowing he would not play, had been a mistake.
The situation attracted further attention after reports emerged that Ronaldo had been training separately from his teammates.
However, Jesus insisted that the forward had not refused to follow instructions, seeking to put an end to speculation about a rift within the Portugal camp.
Ronaldo to miss Denmark clash
Jesus confirmed that Ronaldo is not expected to play against Denmark on Thursday, in line with the arrangement made between the pair.
Portugal head into the match at the top of their Nations League group after winning their opening two fixtures against Wales and Norway.
The European champions will aim to maintain their winning start without their captain, while Ronaldo’s next opportunity to feature for Portugal is expected to come in the subsequent fixture against Norway on Sunday.