Real Madrid legend Cristiano Ronaldo on Wednesday evening finds himself at the heart of the media headlines across his native Portugal, and world football alike.
This comes amid the understanding that the veteran attacker has abruptly departed the Portuguese national team camp.
Ronaldo sparked widespread chatter earlier this week, in making clear his frustration with not being introduced to proceedings off the bench in his country’s Nations League meeting with Norway.
Upon the full-time whistle sounding in a 2-1 Portugal triumph, the 41-year-old appeared angered, rather than happy with the outcome of the clash.
Drawn on the situation earlier today amid murmurs of mounting unrest behind the scenes in his camp, Portugal boss Jorge Jesus assured:
“Cristiano Ronaldo did not refuse to train. There are no issues. Cristiano told me: if you want me to play, I’ll play. If you want me to sit on the bench, I will. If you want me in the stands, I will.”
But safe to say, this statement has since not gone down at all well with Ronaldo himself… As per a report from Marca:
‘Cristiano Ronaldo has left the Portuguese national team camp and will board his private plane to Madrid in a few hours. The captain and legendary figure of the Portuguese team is departing following his coach’s comments.’
At 41 years of age, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s legendary stint in his country’s colours may well be set for an abrupt and controversy-filled close…
Conor Laird – GSFN
