When questioned about whether he missed Cristiano Ronaldo, Jorge Jesus declared that this is not the case. The national team coach recalled that the former captain no longer has interest in representing Portugal and assured that the squad is focused on the athletes who remain available.
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Portugal honors Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Nations League Group A4 match in the race for group leadership
Despite Cristiano Ronaldo's absence, the Portuguese team, led by Jorge Jesus, is gathering again to finalize work on Nations League Group A4. The goal of the remaining two matches remains unchanged—to win.
Bernardo Silva has taken on the role of captain and believes that the team has come close to achieving great heights thanks to the new coach. The coach reacted to the favoritism placed on the national team quite calmly.
This coming Saturday, which will be the first match after Cristiano Ronaldo announced his departure from the national team, the former captain will be honored. Jorge Jesus called the idea of remembering the role and career of 'legend' Cristiano Ronaldo 'brilliant,' although he did not disclose whether the player from Al-Nassr would be present at the stadium.
In CR7's absence, Bernardo Silva holds the top position among captains. The Real Madrid player expressed pride in his new role in the Portuguese camp, emphasizing that 'the job of a captain is never the work of one person,' and called for team spirit.
Although Cristiano Ronaldo's departure marks a 'sad' moment, Bernardo Silva hopes it is the beginning of a new chapter that will allow him to redeem the 'failures' in recent competitions through new achievements. He assured at a press conference that he will always do everything possible to earn a place in the squad 'in any position.'
Younger players and debutants in the squad assembled by Jorge Jesus will participate in the fight for the common goal. The coach explained his choice as preparation for the future and stated that he has already made all decisions regarding the lineup for tomorrow's match. More experienced players, in turn, must instill in the new talents the 'culture of work and responsibility in the camp,' according to Bernardo Silva.
Cristiano Ronaldo bids farewell to the National Team after controversy with Jorge Jesus
Cristiano Ronaldo announced his departure from the National Team this Thursday, one day before Jorge Jesus' call-up. This decision comes amidst all the controversy involving the captain and the national coach.
Despite still serving a suspension for abandoning the training camp, Cristiano used social media to formally communicate his intention to leave the Portuguese group. The announcement generated various reactions among followers and football observers.