Ronaldo misses Portugal training after Jesus denies rift - Reuters

Cristiano Ronaldo, the 41‑year‑old Al‑Nassr forward and captain of Portugal, missed the team’s training session on Tuesday and was not included in the squad that beat Norway 2‑1 in Oslo on Sunday. The Portuguese side secured the victory without him, and after the final whistle Ronaldo went directly to the changing rooms instead of joining his teammates in greeting the visiting fans.

Following the Norway match, reports emerged that Ronaldo was unhappy with the manager, prompting speculation about a possible rift. The coach, Jorge Jesus, rejected those claims, stating that there was “no incident whatsoever.” He explained that he had informed Ronaldo before the game that he would not start, although he might be introduced later, and ultimately decided not to bring the striker on.

Jesus also addressed the training absence, clarifying that Ronaldo did not refuse to train on Tuesday. Instead, the player was assigned individual exercises focused on mobility and strengthening. The coach said Ronaldo was expected to resume normal training on Wednesday.

Ahead of Portugal’s Nations League encounter with Denmark on Thursday, Ronaldo remained a doubt for the match. He did not appear on the pitch in Denmark, and Portuguese media released video showing him leaving Parken Stadium accompanied by two members of the backroom staff.

The coach reiterated that the situation did not constitute a dispute, emphasizing that any player would be dissatisfied after spending time warming up only to remain unused, and that the matter would not be “made a fuss about.” Portugal will face Denmark later this week with Ronaldo’s participation still uncertain.