Portugal boss Jorge Jesus insisted he does not feel guilt over his part in the saga that preceded Cristiano Ronaldo‘s retirement from international football.
Ronaldo, whose 146 international goals mark an all-time record, announced his retirement from Portugal duty this week.
The Al-Nassr star made his final appearance for Portugal in September’s 1-0 Nations League win over Wales, before Jesus’ decision to leave Ronaldo as an unused substitute in their subsequent game with Norway sparked the row that essentially ended the 41-year-old’s international career.
Having gone straight down the tunnel after being left on the bench for the win over Norway, Ronaldo left the Portugal camp in Copenhagen on the eve of their clash with Denmark.
Ronaldo, who accused Jesus of breaking his word, was fined €255 (£215; $286) and given a 30-day ban by the Portuguese Football Federation.
It was expected that conciliatory talks would see Ronaldo return for Portugal’s final Nations League group games with Denmark and Wales this month.
But he instead elected to quit, though Jesus has no regrets.
Jesus, who also previously worked with Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, said: “Maybe I rushed things, but [his retirement was] not because of me. It was in his head, more call-ups, fewer call-ups.
“We also talked about it a few times. And if it was going to happen. But no, I don’t feel guilty about anything regarding his departure. I respect his decision.
“And, as such, his story cannot be ignored. He will always be a symbol and I have built a strong friendship with him over this year and a half.”
Jesus confirmed he planned to select Ronaldo for the upcoming games and had no advance warning about his retirement.
“I found out when we all did,” Jesus added. “Until then, I knew nothing about it.
“He was playing, he was scoring goals; he was one of the players on my squad list.
“All my decisions were made with the team in mind. As a manager, I have always defended what was best for the team. I am at peace with my decision.”
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: 101greatgoals.com
