Cristiano Ronaldo leaves Portugal camp amid reported head coach rift

The 41-year-old announced his departure on Wednesday shortly after head coach Jorge Jesus insisted there was no rift between the pair.

Ronaldo wrote on Instagram: "After the press conference of the national team, and following a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have made the decision to leave the national team training camp.

"In due course, I will tell all the Portuguese people the truth about the reasons that led me to leave the national team, to which I always dedicated myself.

"Now is the time to wish Portugal and all my teammates good luck, without exception."

The announcement came after several days of speculation surrounding Ronaldo and Jesus.

Ronaldo started Portugal's 1-0 win over Wales last Thursday but was left on the bench for Sunday's 2-1 victory against Norway. Goncalo Ramos started and scored the winner, while Ronaldo did not make it onto the pitch.

He also did not join his team-mates in applauding the travelling supporters after the final whistle, instead heading to the dressing room.

Jesus addressed the situation before Thursday's game and denied there had been an incident between himself and Ronaldo.

The Portugal coach said he had told Ronaldo he was likely to play against Norway but changed his mind during the match.

"Any player - and I was a player myself - when you spend 20 or 30 minutes warming up and then don't get on, no-one is happy about that," Jesus said.

Jesus also rejected reports that Ronaldo had refused to train, explaining that the forward had been completing individual mobility and strengthening work.

He said Ronaldo understood that team selection was his responsibility and indicated that Ramos would start against Denmark, with Ronaldo potentially available from the bench if required.

"If we need (Ronaldo) to play (at some point), he'll play. If not, he won't," Jesus said.

Ronaldo's decision to leave the camp now leaves his immediate international future unclear, although he has not announced his retirement.

The Al-Nassr forward has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal and recently revealed that he had considered ending his international career after the World Cup.

He ultimately decided to continue as he pursues the milestone of 1,000 career goals, but his latest departure means he will miss Portugal's meeting with Denmark in Copenhagen.

Portugal then host Norway on Sunday.

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