Ronaldo’s Portugal Future In Focus After Training Absence And Reports Of Jorge Jesus Tension

Cristiano Ronaldo’s availability for Portugal’s Nations League clash against Denmark has become uncertain after the veteran forward missed team training and reports emerged of tensions over his limited role in the team’s previous match.

Ronaldo did not train with his teammates on Wednesday and has instead been restricted to gym work since Portugal’s 2-1 win over Norway on Sunday, the Portuguese Football Federation said. The 41-year-old was an unused substitute in that match after starting Portugal’s previous game against Wales.

The decision reportedly sparked speculation in Portuguese media that Ronaldo was unhappy with new coach Jorge Jesus. Federation president Pedro Proença was also reported to have travelled to meet Ronaldo and Jesus following the developments. The federation confirmed Proença was with the squad in Sweden, where Portugal are preparing for Thursday’s game, but did not disclose details of any meeting.

Ronaldo, who has scored 146 international goals, appeared to send a public message on Tuesday when he posted a picture of himself in Portugal colours on Instagram, accompanied by the national flag and a heart emoji.

Jesus, who replaced Roberto Martínez after the World Cup, had explained before the Norway match that he wanted to manage Ronaldo’s workload during a demanding international break. Portugal are scheduled to play four matches in 11 days, and Jesus said he had intended to give Ronaldo some playing time against Norway.

However, Portugal’s game did not unfold as planned, leaving Ronaldo on the bench throughout. After the match, Jesus said he would speak to the forward amid reports that Ronaldo was unhappy.

Ronaldo had started Portugal’s 1-0 victory over Wales last Thursday but was substituted in the 67th minute.

Portugal currently top Nations League Group A4 with six points from two matches, while Denmark and Norway have three each and Wales have none. Portugal face Denmark on Thursday before hosting Norway on Sunday, with Ronaldo’s status likely to remain a major talking point.