Ronaldo retires from Portugal after 23 years; Jesus denies responsibility
Portugal coach Jorge Jesus says he was surprised by Cristiano Ronaldo's international retirement announcement.
At a glance
- Ronaldo's international career with Portugal has ended after 23 years
- Coach Jorge Jesus said he learned of the retirement announcement alongside the public
- Jesus stated Ronaldo remained part of his plans for upcoming matches
- The coach acknowledged recent disagreement but said it did not determine his decisions
Cristiano Ronaldo has ended his 23-year international career with Portugal. The circumstances of his retirement have prompted debate about whether coach Jorge Jesus or Ronaldo's changing role in the team prompted the decision.
Jesus said he was unaware of Ronaldo's plans to retire and had intended to select him for upcoming Nations League matches. The coach acknowledged a recent disagreement with Ronaldo but denied responsibility for the retirement, stating he would not change any of his decisions.
Why it matters
Ronaldo's retirement marks the end of an era for Portugal's national team after more than two decades of international football at the highest level.
Original reporting
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