Jorge Jesus urges focus on Portugal, says talk on Cristiano can wait | OneFootball

Jorge Jesus sidestepped definitive answers on Cristiano Ronaldo and urged attention on Portugal ahead of Sunday’s 20:45 match against Norway at O Dragao, Oporto.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, Ronaldo left the national-team camp upset with the head coach, leaving the situation unresolved as Jesus spoke to the media on Saturday.

Jesus said the focus must remain on the national side and called for unity around the flag and the team’s objective. He characterised Ronaldo as a symbol of Portugal and added that there would be ample time to discuss the issue after the game.

The coach, who has succeeded Roberto Martínez, pushed discussion towards the opposition, describing Norway as one of the five best teams in Europe with high-level players. He stressed the need for concentration, noting that analysis can follow. Two fixtures remain, but securing qualification comes first.

His stance on the captain has divided sections of the Portuguese support. With the game in Oporto and Jesus having previously managed Sporting and Benfica, he urged calm, saying the only affection he seeks is for the national team, not for himself. He presented himself as the leader and a long-time supporter who cares for the country and does not want to stand apart from anything related to the Seleção.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”