ไทย
English
中國人
Jorge Jesus has enjoyed a flying start as Portugal manager, engineering three consecutive wins to launch his time in charge.
The experienced coach secured a tight victory over Wales in his first match at the helm, before going on to beat both Norway and Denmark in challenging away fixtures. Portugal currently sits at the top of its UEFA Nations League group with a perfect record.
However, Jesus's spell in charge has not been without controversy.
Cristiano Ronaldo's omission has dominated headlines throughout the current international break, and the 41-year-old will again be absent for Portugal's upcoming home fixture against Norway on Sunday.
Here's the story behind the iconic forward's exclusion.
Why Is Ronaldo Not Playing Against Norway?
Ronaldo has always been a fiery personality, so it came as little surprise when he erupted in frustration after being overlooked by Jesus—his former manager at Al Nassr—during last week's reverse fixture against Norway.
After a poor performance against Wales that ended with an early substitution, Ronaldo was relegated to the bench for the following match in Oslo. Despite being given assurances by Jesus that he would see some playing time, he remained unused throughout the 2–1 victory.
With Portugal needing to hold onto their slender lead, Jesus chose not to introduce Ronaldo late in the game.
"I can promise whatever I want, I'm the coach," Jesus stated after the match. "No player will ever make a decision for me."
Ronaldo's response was entirely predictable. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner was furious at being left out and at Jesus's post-match comments, and he subsequently chose to depart the Portugal camp immediately—ruling him out of both the 4–2 victory over Denmark and the home encounter with Norway.
"Following the press conference of the National Team coach, and after a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I decided to leave the National Team camp," Ronaldo posted on social media earlier this week.
"In due course, I will explain to all Portuguese people the reasons behind my departure from the national team, to which I have always given everything.
"For now, I want to wish Portugal and all my teammates the very best of luck, without exception."
Ronaldo's omission from the squad for the upcoming clash against an Erling Haaland-led Norway will once again steal the spotlight surrounding the match, while also raising serious questions about his international future.
Portugal Fans Defend Ronaldo
Given Ronaldo's 23 years of dedication to Portugal and his standing as a national legend, it was no surprise that large numbers of supporters rallied behind him—with some even putting up billboards to publicly express their backing.
Displayed prominently across Lisbon and the surrounding region, the billboards read: "Thank you Cristiano Ronaldo for everything you've done for Portugal. You will always be our captain. Portugal is always with you."
The signs also took a swipe at new manager Jesus, accusing him of "mistreating" Ronaldo and having an "inflated ego."
For the Portuguese Football Federation, the ongoing drama shows no signs of dying down.