‘I Didn’t Read Ronaldo’s Statement — Jorge Jesus Reacts To Portugal Row

Portugal manager Jorge Jesus has revealed that he had not yet read Cristiano Ronaldo’s detailed public statement addressing their recent dispute when questioned about it by reporters on Tuesday night.

Jesus explained that he had been focused on watching Portugal’s Under-21 match instead of reading the statement, adding that he would have an opportunity to go through Ronaldo’s comments later.

“I didn’t read Cristiano’s statement, I was watching Portugal U21 game. I will now have time to read it,” Jesus told reporters.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Jesus’ remarks came just hours after Ronaldo, 41, publicly provided his account of the events that preceded his departure from Portugal’s training camp last week.

The Al Nassr forward alleged that Jesus failed to honour two separate agreements made during the international break. Ronaldo claimed the manager had promised to give him approximately 30 minutes of playing time against Norway in the UEFA Nations League but kept him on the bench despite completing a lengthy warm-up.

Ronaldo also alleged that another agreement involving comments Jesus was expected to make during a subsequent press conference was not fulfilled.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said he had previously discussed a plan with Jesus concerning the management of his playing time. He further claimed that a later meeting involving officials of the Portuguese Football Federation resulted in additional understandings that the coach was expected to address publicly.

According to Ronaldo, however, Jesus did not reflect those agreements in his subsequent comments.

Despite his criticism, Ronaldo apologised to his teammates and supporters over the manner of his departure from the national team camp. He also acknowledged that he could face disciplinary consequences while indicating that he remains open to continuing his international career.

Jesus, who took charge of Portugal following the 2026 World Cup and previously coached Ronaldo at Al Nassr, has maintained that there is no major crisis within the national team.

The Portuguese manager has also stressed that team rules apply equally to all players, regardless of their status or experience.

Portugal have remained unbeaten in their Nations League campaign under Jesus this autumn, with attention now turning to how the latest exchange between the coach and Ronaldo will affect the team.