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A lengthy three-week international break offered Cristiano Ronaldo the chance to edge closer to his 1,000th career goal across club and country. Instead, things have taken a troubling turn.
Jorge Jesus included the five-time Ballon d'Or recipient in his inaugural Portugal squad for four UEFA Nations League fixtures, the first of which Ronaldo started as the Seleção das Quinas defeated Wales 1–0 thanks to João Félix's deflected strike.
However, Ronaldo struggled considerably despite Portugal claiming the win. After squandering a series of clear-cut chances and having a goal disallowed for offside, his 234th international cap ended with an early substitution.
The 41-year-old was left unused during the subsequent 2–1 win over Norway and will now be absent for the remaining two matches of the international window, including Portugal's away fixture against Denmark on Friday.
So, why is Ronaldo not part of the squad?
Why Ronaldo Won't Play Against Denmark
Ronaldo will play no part in the match against Denmark as he is no longer part of the Portugal squad. On Wednesday, it emerged that the former Real Madrid and Manchester United star had opted to depart the current camp.
The reason behind his exit lies in a falling-out with new head coach Jesus, who had previously worked with Ronaldo at Al Nassr.
Following his underwhelming display against Wales, Ronaldo was dropped to the bench for the Norway victory and replaced by Gonçalo Ramos—who went on to score. However, Jesus acknowledged in his post-match press conference that Ronaldo had been told he would feature as a substitute in Oslo, only for the manager to reverse that decision mid-game as his team held onto a slender lead.
"I can promise whatever I want, I'm the coach," Jesus said. "No player will ever make a decision for me."
Ronaldo, however, has not taken the situation lightly. Despite Jesus insisting there was "no issue" between the two, the Portugal captain quickly chose to leave the camp ahead of schedule and has since shared a cryptic message on Instagram.
"After the press conference of the National Team coach, and following a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I decided to leave the National Team camp," Ronaldo wrote on social media.
"In due time, I will tell all the Portuguese about the reasons that motivated my departure from the national team, which I always dedicated myself to.
"Now it's time to wish good luck to Portugal and all my teammates, without exception."
Not only will Ronaldo miss the Denmark fixture, he will also be absent for the following home match against Norway this Sunday—unless a remarkable change of heart occurs.
Is This the End for Ronaldo?
This latest controversy surrounding Ronaldo casts serious doubt over his international future, particularly after he admitted contemplating retirement from international football following a disappointing World Cup.
"Yes I did," Ronaldo replied when asked whether he had considered stepping away. "Of course, I'm always thinking on my decisions, my future, the present also. I'm a thinker. You have to think. This is why you see me here now. It means I will continue.
"I had a conversation with our president, with our coach. I still believe that I'm able to help the national team to reach what they want, and will finish when I feel like I'm not doing anything here.
"I can give to the national team my support, not only through the goals, but also outside of football."
Whether the relationship between Jesus and Ronaldo can be salvaged remains uncertain, with the next international break not scheduled until November.
While many feel Portugal should move forward without their legendary striker—who some argue has a negative impact on the team—such an acrimonious conclusion to his international career would be unworthy of his standing as one of the greatest players in history and a true national icon.