Portugal manager Jorge Jesus has responded to Cristiano Ronaldo’s lengthy statement about their recent dispute, but has declined to enter into a public back-and-forth with the national team captain.
Speaking to reporters outside his home on Wednesday, Jesus confirmed that he had now read Ronaldo’s statement.
“I read the statement and now, like I do every day, I'm going to the Federation headquarters to work, to think about the Portuguese national team.”
He then ended his response with a brief message:
“I have nothing more to say.”
Ronaldo had accused Jesus of breaking his word
Ronaldo's statement, released on Tuesday, gave his detailed account of the events that led to his departure from Portugal's training camp.
The 41-year-old claimed Jesus broke his word on two occasions.
Ronaldo said Jesus initially agreed that he would miss Portugal's matches against Norway and Denmark as part of a plan to manage his fitness. However, he said Jesus later told him he would play around 30 minutes against Norway.
Ronaldo warmed up during the second half but was ultimately not introduced.
He subsequently claimed that Jesus agreed to explain the situation in a particular way during his next press conference, but that the manager's public comments did not reflect what they had agreed privately.
Ronaldo still wants to play for Portugal
Despite the dispute, Ronaldo made clear that he does not consider his international career over.
The Portugal captain apologised for leaving the camp and accepted that the Portuguese Football Federation could punish him. However, he said he would remain available for selection after serving any suspension if he remains fit and performing for Al Nassr.
Jesus had previously left the door open for Ronaldo to return, but the latest exchange has added further uncertainty over their working relationship.
Jesus chooses to move on
Rather than respond point-by-point to Ronaldo's accusations, Jesus has indicated that his attention is now on his responsibilities with the national team.
Portugal have made an impressive start to the Nations League under Jesus, winning all four of their matches against Wales, Norway twice and Denmark.
For now, Jesus appears unwilling to prolong the public dispute, leaving Ronaldo's statement as the detailed account of the former Al Nassr coach's alleged broken promises.
