GhanaRonaldo Can Return to Portugal Team
Portugal boss Jorge Jesus says Cristiano Ronaldo can still return to the team if he chooses to, after the captain left the Nations League camp. Ronaldo has scored 146 goals in 234 Portugal appearances, both world records.
Global Newsflix 2 min read
Portugal boss Jorge Jesus says Cristiano Ronaldo can still return to the team if he chooses to. Jesus made the comment after Ronaldo left the Nations League camp following a disagreement over his role in the team.
Ronaldo, 41, has scored 146 goals in 234 Portugal appearances, both world records. He was an unused substitute against Norway and then told he would not start against Denmark, leading to his departure from the camp.
Jesus, who also managed Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, said he needs Ronaldo to be close to him, playing or not playing. He added that Ronaldo should end his time in the national team the way he wants.
Bruno Fernandes has backed Ronaldo, saying he remains the greatest symbol of the Portugal team. Fernandes called for unity after a tumultuous few days, saying there are no divisions in the national team.
Portugal host Denmark in their next Group A4 tie on 14 November, before visiting Wales three days later. AC Milan striker Goncalo Ramos has scored in all three starts with Ronaldo out of the team.
Ronaldo's international future remains in doubt after his decision to leave the team camp. He wrote on social media that he would tell the truth about his reasons for leaving the national team in due course.
Portugal beat Norway 2-1 in Oslo last Sunday with Ronaldo an unused substitute, then prevailed 4-2 in Copenhagen after his departure from the squad. Fernandes wore the captain's armband in the win over Denmark.
Key facts
- Cristiano Ronaldo can still return to the Portugal team if he chooses to
- Ronaldo has scored 146 goals in 234 Portugal appearances, both world records
- He left the Nations League camp after a disagreement over his role in the team
- Bruno Fernandes has backed Ronaldo, saying he remains the greatest symbol of the Portugal team
Three perspectives
Neutral
The situation surrounding Ronaldo's future with the Portugal team remains uncertain. Jesus's comments suggest that the door is still open for Ronaldo's return, but it is unclear if he will take up the offer. Portugal's next match is against Denmark on 14 November.
Positive
Ronaldo's potential return to the team could be a boost for Portugal's chances in the Nations League. Fernandes's support for Ronaldo suggests that the team is united behind their captain, despite the recent disagreement.
Negative
Ronaldo's departure from the team camp has raised questions about his commitment to the national team. His decision to leave the squad has also sparked debate among fans, with some criticizing his behavior.
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