Cristiano Ronaldo's benching and training absence sparks tension in Portugal squad

On September 27, 2026, 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo remained on the bench for the entire duration of Portugal’s 2-1 Nations League victory against Norway. This marked the first time in 18 years that the forward had not recorded any minutes of play for the national team while available, ending a streak dating back to June 2008. Following the match, reports emerged that Ronaldo was dissatisfied because coach Jorge Jesus allegedly failed to honor a promise to field him for the final 30 minutes.

The tension escalated on September 29 during the team’s training session in Malmö, Sweden, ahead of their upcoming match against Denmark. Ronaldo arrived with the squad but did not participate, instead retreating to the hotel for an individual workout. While the Portuguese Football Federation officially cited a lack of necessary equipment for his absence, media reports linked it to his frustration with the coaching staff. Internal meetings between Ronaldo and Jesus reportedly took place at the team hotel to resolve the conflict. Meanwhile, the president of the Portuguese Football Federation has traveled to Denmark, raising concerns about the stability of the squad as they prepare for the match scheduled for October 1, 2026.