UNL: Jorge Jesus clarifies Ronaldo’s alleged refusal to train

Portugal coach, Jorge Jesus, has opened up on his current relationship with captain Cristiano Ronaldo after it was reported that the 41-year-old refused to train ahead of their UEFA Nations League match against Denmark

Ronaldo garnered significant media attention following his conduct after Portugal’s victory over Norway. 

The legendary attacker appeared to snub his teammates and fans, hastily running to the locker room, given that he did not feature in any capacity during the match against Norway.

Concerns about his dissatisfaction intensified when he was absent from the Portugal training session on Tuesday.

Certain media outlets reported that Ronaldo objected to training due to a disagreement with manager Jorge Jesus.

During a press conference preceding the Denmark match, Jorge Jesus addressed these speculations with remarks delivered to journalists. 

He stated via Al Nassr Tribune, “No, no. He didn’t refuse to train. He didn’t train. Félix didn’t train and Francisco Conceição didn’t train either because they were injured. Félix was rested to help reduce some of the fatigue he had accumulated after those two games, and we’ll see how he is tomorrow.

“Cris did gym work, did some mobility exercises on the pitch and then went back to the hotel to do some strengthening work. That was it. He didn’t refuse to train. He is going to train today.

“I have had issues with players before, but don’t turn this into an issue that does not exist. This was a coaching decision. I had a plan, if you like.”