Unused sub Cristiano Ronaldo leaves Portugal national team

Cristiano Ronaldo’s bizarre U-turn on his national team future may have gone back into its intended lane.

It was reported this summer that the Portuguese living legend was set to play his last international match for his national team this international break but he changed his mind after a conversation with new head coach Jorge Jesus, vowing to lead a new generation as he pursues 1000 career goals with Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr.

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Ronaldo, 41, took seven shots but failed to score in a 1-0 win over Wales in the first UEFA Nations League match of the international break but was not brought into the second game as Portugal won 2-1 in Norway on Sunday behind goals from Joao Felix and Goncalo Ramos.

Jesus poured cold water on reports of a rift between the manager and his player, but Ronaldo collected that water and dumped it into a cauldron, leaving camp ahead of Thursday’s visit from Norway and is vowing to spill the beans at some point in the future.

All things end but not all things end well. Ronaldo looked set for a fond goodbye after a disappointing World Cup but now looks a bit like a dishonest malcontent with no perception of his place in a team.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s statement on early exit from Portugal camp

“After the press conference of the National Team coach, and following a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I decided to leave the National Team camp.

“In due time, I will tell all the Portuguese about the reasons that motivated my departure from the national team, which I always dedicated myself to.

“Now it’s time to wish good luck to Portugal and all my teammates, without exception.”

His sister issued strong thoughts, too, as shared by Fabrizio Romano.