Jorge Jesus makes Cristiano Ronaldo stance clear with blunt Portugal admission: “It wasn’t his moment” | OneFootball

Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has made his stance on Cristiano Ronaldo clear after leaving the veteran forward on the bench during Sunday’s 2-1 win over Norway.

Jesus, who previously worked with Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, chose not to play the 41-year-old despite initially saying he would feature in the UEFA Nations League clash.

Ronaldo had started Portugal’s opening game of the international break against Wales but endured a frustrating outing before being replaced in the starting XI for the meeting with Norway.

The decision raised eyebrows given Ronaldo captains Portugal and is their record goalscorer.

However, Jesus insisted his choice was based on the match and not the player’s reputation.

“Before the match, I told him I was going to play him, but I didn’t. It’s football that dictates things,” Jesus said after the victory (via AS Quinas).

“He was ready to play, but it wasn’t his moment. I needed a player with different characteristics.

“I was thinking of bringing him on at the hour mark, but it wasn’t the right time given the flow of the match. Maybe he’ll play against Denmark.”

Jesus was also asked about Ronaldo appearing to head straight down the tunnel without greeting the supporters after the final whistle.

The former Al-Nassr boss admitted he couldn’t explain the incident but made it clear he intends to address it with his captain.

“He didn’t greet the fans? I’m going to talk to him. The national team is the national team. I couldn’t explain why he didn’t do it,” Jesus said.

The decision to leave Ronaldo out could prove significant as Jesus begins shaping his Portugal side following his appointment as Roberto Martinez’s successor.

Ronaldo remains one of the most important figures in Portuguese football, but Jesus’ comments suggest even his captaincy and extraordinary record will not guarantee him a place in the team.

Portugal will now turn their attention to Denmark, with Jesus hinting that Ronaldo could return to the starting XI, but he did promise the man himself after the last game and didn’t play him.