Federation plans CR7 farewell match after rift with Jorge Jesus | OneFootball

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has already begun behind-the-scenes talks to organize a farewell match for Cristiano Ronaldo, according to information published this Sunday (4) by the French newspaper L'Équipe.

Although the board led by president Pedro Proença is still trying to patch things up between the forward and coach Jorge Jesus, the federation understands that the task is complex.

As a precaution, the FPF is already negotiating the staging of an event that would allow the icon to bid farewell to the national team in a way worthy of his history.

At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo decided to leave the team's training camp last Wednesday.

The trigger was Jorge Jesus's press conference before the match against Denmark in the Nations League — a game that ended in a 4-2 win for Portugal.

After the episode, the No. 7 traveled on his private jet to Madrid, Spain, and is expected to return this Sunday to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to resume training with Al Nassr, the club where he is under contract until June 2027 under Australian coach Ange Postecoglou.

The fallout from the possible farewell comes at a decisive moment for the national team on the field. Portugal can book its place in the Nations League quarterfinals if it beats Norway in a match scheduled for the Estádio do Dragão.

Promise of explanations

On the eve of the clash against Norway, Jorge Jesus chose not to dwell on the crisis.

The coach stressed that the full focus should be on the match and qualification, but acknowledged the player's importance: "That does not mean ignoring Cris. He is a symbol of the national team, let that be very clear. After the match, there will be plenty of time to talk about it," he said.

The coach also indicated that the atmosphere behind the scenes overshadowed the recent result: "I was extremely happy with what the players did against Denmark, but I could have been happier."

On the other side, Cristiano Ronaldo used his social media to confirm that his departure came after hearing Jesus's remarks at the press conference and having a conversation with the FPF president.

He promised to present his version soon: "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 Portugal and all my teammates, without exception, good luck."

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

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