Why Cristiano Ronaldo Is Missing from Portugal’s Squad Against Norway

Jorge Jesus has had a fiery start as Portugal’s manager, leading the team to three straight wins since taking charge. He narrowly defeated Wales in his first match and followed that with victories against Norway and Denmark on tough away grounds. Portugal currently leads its UEFA Nations League group with full points.

Yet, his tenure has faced challenges, the most notable being the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo during this international break. The 41-year-old forward will once again miss Portugal’s upcoming game against Norway on Sunday.

Reasons Behind Ronaldo's Absence

Ronaldo’s explosive personality was on display recently after he was left out of the starting lineup against Norway. Following a poor performance versus Wales that saw him substituted early, Jesus benched him for the next match in Oslo. Despite promises of playing time, Ronaldo remained an unused substitute in Portugal’s 2–1 victory.

With Portugal needing to hold onto a slim lead, Jesus chose not to bring Ronaldo on late in the game. Afterward, Jesus stated, “I can promise whatever I want, I’m the coach. No player will ever make a decision for me.”

Ronaldo reacted strongly to this treatment and Jesus’s comments. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner decided to leave the national team camp immediately, ruling himself out of Portugal’s 4–2 win over Denmark and the home fixture against Norway.

He announced on social media: “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. 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.”

Fan Support Amid Controversy

Given Ronaldo’s 23 years of service and iconic status in Portugal, many fans quickly rallied behind him. Billboards appeared in Lisbon and surrounding areas expressing gratitude and loyalty. They read:

• Message on billboards: “Thank you Cristiano Ronaldo for everything you’ve done for Portugal. You will always be our captain. Portugal is always with you.”
• Criticism of Jorge Jesus: Fans accused the coach of mistreating Ronaldo and having an inflated ego.

This ongoing conflict between Ronaldo and the Portuguese Football Federation continues to dominate headlines, especially with the spotlight on the upcoming clash against a Norway side inspired by Erling Haaland.