Portugal coach Jesus says Ronaldo did not refuse training after Norway game
Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has denied reports that captain Cristiano Ronaldo refused to train after being left unused in Portugal’s 2‑1 Nations League win over Norway on Sunday. Speaking to reporters on September 30, Jesus said there is no issue between him and Ronaldo, quoting the 41‑year‑old: "if you want me to play, I’ll play. If you want me to sit on the bench, I will. If you want me in the stands, I will." The Portuguese Football Federation had reportedly called an emergency meeting between Jesus and Ronaldo to address the alleged tension, but Jesus insisted the meeting was unnecessary and that Ronaldo remains fully committed. The clarification comes after Record newspaper reported that Ronaldo was furious about not playing a single minute despite being named captain. For Nigerian fans who follow Ronaldo’s career and Portugal’s international fixtures, the statement reassures that the team’s leadership is united and that the star forward is ready to contribute in whatever role the coach assigns, putting to rest speculation that could affect morale ahead of upcoming Nations League matches.