Jorge Jesus keeps his group's faith after the captain's departure
Portugal beat Denmark 4-2 on Thursday in Copenhagen during the Nations League, while manager Jorge Jesus reaffirmed his confidence in the squad after Cristiano Ronaldo's sudden departure from the national team camp and said he would remain in charge of the group.
The match, played at Parken Stadium, saw Portugal regain control of the game after a tentative start, scoring four goals to two to prevail over the Danes.
Jorge Jesus said: “I have a group that believes in the coach’s ideas. The players believe in my ideas and, thanks to their many individual qualities, things become easier. If that’s what it means to have a group under my guidance, then yes, because they fully embrace my ideas.” He emphasized that this unity made daily work easier.
Cristiano Ronaldo's Departure
Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, left the Portuguese camp by private jet from Copenhagen to Madrid, after missing three consecutive training sessions. He confirmed his departure in an Instagram statement where he said: “After the national team coach's press conference, and following a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have decided to leave the national team training camp. In due time, I will tell all Portuguese people the truth about the reasons that led to my departure from the national team, to which I have always dedicated myself. Now is the time to wish good luck to Portugal and to all my teammates.” The captain, known by the nickname CR7, left the group without its star striker.
The Portuguese Football Federation states that any player who abandons the camp without justification faces a suspension of one to six months, according to the current disciplinary code.
Jorge Jesus added: “It’s not difficult for me to concentrate. You know what’s difficult? Not understanding what’s happening inside me. Not knowing how to coach my players. That’s what’s difficult. The rest… zero.” He went on to say that the events do not divide the squad and that they will never be split.
Supporters' Reactions
Supporters waved “Love u Jesus” shirts while others displayed banners featuring Ronaldo, showing a split in opinion among the crowd. Some fans even whistled at the staff outside the group’s hotel in Copenhagen.
Looking ahead, Portugal will face Norway on Sunday, and Jesus indicated that the recent situation has not unsettled his team, which remains focused on the next fixture.
Regarding the eleven, the manager specified that Gonçalo Ramos would retain his place over Ronaldo, adding that the captain would not start against Denmark and that his role would depend on the coach’s decision.
Jesus concluded by reaffirming his clear conscience and the squad’s cohesion, stating that Portugal is ready to continue its campaign in the Nations League.