Cristiano Ronaldo says he will not retire after Portugal squad walkout

Cristiano Ronaldo has declared that he is not retiring from international football, but accepts that he deserves punishment for walking out on the Portugal squad. The BBC, The Guardian, and Sky Sports all reported that the 41-year-old captain released a statement addressing his departure from the team camp. Ronaldo left the squad after remaining an unused substitute against Norway and learning he would not start against Denmark, according to the BBC and Al Jazeera. [1][5][6][8]

The Guardian and The Telegraph reported that Ronaldo accused Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus of twice breaking his word to him regarding his omission. Reports from Goal.com and the Daily Mail added that sources claim Ronaldo will not return to the national team while Jorge Jesus remains in charge. However, the Daily Mail noted that the manager had previously expressed a willingness to welcome Ronaldo back for the next international break. [2][6][7][10]

The Al-Nassr forward has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, which the BBC noted are both world records. He previously helped his national side win Euro 2016 and two Nations League titles. As FTMQ News reported earlier, Portugal faced Norway in Porto following his abrupt departure from the team training camp. [1][15][17]

Ronaldo acknowledged in his statement that his actions constituted a breach of the coach's trust and stated he will be available for selection once his punishment has been served, according to the BBC and The Guardian. [1][6]