Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has told the national team he will not come back while Jorge Jesus remains in charge, sources have said.
Ronaldo is reportedly frustrated because Jesus failed to deliver a public apology that had previously been agreed during the coach’s latest press conference.
Following Portugal’s 2-1 Nations League victory over Norway at home on Sunday, Jesus said Ronaldo remained welcome to continue his international career.
“Should he wish to return, the national team will be open to him,” Jesus said. “We can speak before the next squad is selected, but the decision belongs to Cris.
“When I announced my first squad, I said, ‘I need you near me, whether you play or not.’ My position has not changed.”
Sources said Ronaldo has nevertheless decided against rejoining Portugal for as long as Jesus is coach because the manager did not issue a direct apology.
The Al Nassr forward departed the Portugal camp after being left on the bench throughout a 2-1 Nations League win in Norway on Sept. 27.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said last week that he would “tell the truth” when the time was right, amid a dispute that had put the international future of the 146-goal, 234-cap Portugal record scorer in doubt.
Ronaldo has made no further public statement.
