Portugal boss Jorge Jesus responds after Cristiano Ronaldo calls him out in controversial statement

Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has responded to Cristiano Ronaldo after being called out in a 2,000-word statement on Tuesday. The pair fell out during the recent international break, where Portugal played four Nations League games.

Ronaldo claimed Jesus told him he would play against Norway but left him on the bench as an unused substitute. The Al-Nassr forward then walked out of the team despite Portugal having two more games to play.

Jesus was then expected to clarify the situation in his press conference with an eight-point statement, but he did not follow the script. Ronaldo subsequently posted a lengthy social media message giving his version of events, and Jesus has now responded.

Jorge Jesus responds after Cristiano Ronaldo accuses him of breaking his word

Jorge Jesus took the sensible approach of not adding more fuel to the fire. He chose not to make any controversial comments about Cristiano Ronaldo's accusation that he went back on his word.

Jesus responded: "I read the statement, and now, like I do every day, I'm going to the Federation headquarters to work, to think about the Portuguese national team". "I have nothing more to say."

While Jesus' response was reasonable, it did little to suggest what Ronaldo's international future will be. The 41-year-old is reportedly not prepared to play for the national team until Jesus leaves.

However, Jesus only recently signed a four-year deal that will take him to the 2030 World Cup , which Portugal is co-hosting. This suggests Ronaldo may have played his last game for Portugal, or perhaps only has a farewell appearance remaining.