Portugal manager Jorge Jesus has made a strong statement following Cristiano Ronaldo’s international retirement. The coach admits he may have pushed Ronaldo to leave earlier but insists he would not change any of his decisions.
Portugal Coach Makes Strong Statement After Ronaldo’s International Retirement
Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has made a strong statement following Cristiano Ronaldo’s international retirement, insisting that he has no regrets about his decisions involving the legendary forward.
Ronaldo announced his retirement on November 5, bringing his remarkable 23-year international career to an end.
His departure came after a public disagreement with Jorge Jesus, raising questions about the manager’s role in the decision.
However, Jesus has now made it clear that he would not change anything about how he handled the situation.
Jorge Jesus refuses to apologise for Ronaldo situation
Speaking at a press conference on November 6, Jorge Jesus was asked whether he regretted his decisions involving Ronaldo.
The Portuguese coach responded firmly:
“I wouldn’t change anything. Nothing.”
Jesus explained that every decision he made was intended to protect the interests of the national team.
He also rejected suggestions that he was personally responsible for Ronaldo’s retirement.
The manager insisted that he had acted as a coach and always put Portugal first.
Jesus admits he may have pushed Ronaldo to leave earlier
Despite refusing to accept responsibility, Jesus made a surprising admission.
The 72-year-old acknowledged that his decisions may have caused Ronaldo to end his international career earlier than expected.
However, Jesus insisted that Ronaldo had already been thinking about retirement and that the final decision belonged to the player.
He also explained that he respected Ronaldo’s choice and would never ignore his incredible achievements for Portugal.
Portugal coach reveals he wanted Ronaldo back
Another surprising detail emerged when Jesus discussed Portugal’s upcoming Nations League matches.
The coach revealed that he had planned to include Ronaldo in the squad for the games against Denmark and Wales.
However, Ronaldo announced his retirement before the squad was officially revealed.
Jesus admitted that he learned about Ronaldo’s decision at the same time as the public, through the superstar’s announcement.
Despite their previous disagreement, the manager insisted that he had no personal anger towards Ronaldo.
A new chapter begins for Portugal
Ronaldo leaves the national team with an incredible record of 234 appearances, 146 goals, the EURO 2016 title and two UEFA Nations League trophies.
His departure marks the end of one of the greatest international careers in football history.
Portugal must now prepare for a new era without their legendary captain.
While Jorge Jesus admits he may have pushed Ronaldo towards an earlier retirement, his message remains clear: he respects the superstar’s decision but has no regrets about his own actions.
