😱Start of a rift? Jorge Jesus rules out CR7 as a starter | OneFootball

Portugal manager Jorge Jesus defused the controversy surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo being left on the bench against Norway, revealing in a press conference that there had been a prior agreement with the star to manage his physical workload during the FIFA window.

A physical management plan agreed in advance

The coach explained that, because of the schedule and his knowledge of Ronaldo’s condition after coaching him in Saudi Arabia, he agreed with the forward that he would not play either against Norway or in the following Nations League clash with Denmark. "Don’t try to create drama out of something that doesn’t exist. I told Cris he would not play in these matches. Status does not grant different rights, but it does demand respect," said the manager, who categorically denied that the player had refused to train.

Rúben Dias and the dressing room’s stance

For his part, defender Rúben Dias downplayed the visible frustration shown by the striker when he did not come on after warming up. The centre-back described the reaction as a simple "20-second frustration" typical of highly competitive players, assuring that the squad’s commitment to the national team remains fully intact.

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

📸 LISE ASERUD - Lise Åserud / NTB