Cristiano Ronaldo: Portugal forward not retiring but wants to be punished for walking out
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Ronaldo wants Portugal 'punishment' but not retiring
Image source: Getty Images
Image caption: Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 146 goals for Portugal in 234 appearances
Published: 6 October 2026
Cristiano Ronaldo states he is not retiring from international football but deserves punishment for walking out on Portugal after head coach Jorge Jesus twice "broke his word".
The 41-year-old captain left Portugal's Nations League camp last week after being an unused substitute against Norway and then discovering he wouldn't start against Denmark.
Al-Nassr forward Ronaldo holds the records for most goals (146) and appearances (234) for Portugal, aiding their victories at Euro 2016 and the Nations League.
In a lengthy statement (nearly 2,000 words), Ronaldo asserts he should be held accountable for his actions. He accuses Jesus of a "breach of trust" for initially not playing him against Norway, after promising, and then retracting, that decision to the media.
"The Portuguese Football Federation must assess the consequences of my actions and punish me for them. I believe the punishment should not be reduced," Ronaldo said.
"I have already apologised, but I know that actions have consequences."
Jesus claimed there was no rift with the captain, contrary to reports that Ronaldo refused to train. He stated the door remained open for Ronaldo to return to the national team.
Ronaldo expressed his desire to continue playing for Portugal, stating: "After my suspension period ends, I will be available... to compete and win with our national team."
BBC Sport has reached out to the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) for comment.