Ronaldo’s statement, which runs almost 2,000 words, struck a conciliatory tone in places but also criticized Portuguese coach Jesus in providing his version of the dispute that prompted him to leave the team last week.
He said Jesus had agreed to a plan which would see the striker miss matches against Norway and Denmark to manage his fitness.
However, on the day of the match against Norway, the 72-year-old coach told him he would play 30 minutes.
“Everyone knows what happened next. I warmed up at halftime, watched the minutes go by and wasn’t called upon,” Ronaldo said.
“The manager had broken his word to me.”
A subsequent meeting with Jesus resulted in an agreement that the coach would clarify things at his next press conference.
Ronaldo said an eight-point document had been prepared saying he had never demanded playing time, that he had respected Jesus’ decisions and that the coach asking him to warm up without bringing him on had been a mistake.
Portugal, the all-time appearance holder, said the agreed-upon notes did not require Jesus to apologize to him, but said the coach’s public remarks did not reflect their private discussion.
“It was the second time I missed his word,” Ronaldo said.
“I have decided to leave training camp without waiting for further broken promises.”
More to follow.
Gn sports
