Crisis in Portugal! Emergency summit between Ronaldo and his coach
Portugal's new era has hit its first earthquake: an emergency meeting between Cristiano Ronaldo, Jorge Jesus and the federation president is set for tomorrow.
Details: According to Record, FA chief Pedro Proenca is flying in for urgent talks as tension grips the camp. Ronaldo did not train on Tuesday, days after being benched for the Nations League win over Norway and heading straight to the dressing room at full time without saluting the fans. Jesus had promised he fully trusts his captain, but the mood is reportedly one of tension and discomfort.
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The writing was on the wall. Ronaldo, 41, has been told he must accept a reduced role under Jesus, no longer an undisputed starter after 233 caps. He recently vowed to play on and chase 1,000 career goals, but the new reality is biting: first a substitute appearance against Norway, now open friction. For Jesus, who called Ronaldo a symbol of Portugal just days ago, managing the ego of a legend was always going to be the hardest part of the job. Tomorrow's summit could define the rest of his tenure.
It's worth noting that Portugal have been here before: in late 2022, Fernando Santos benched Ronaldo and the story ended in tears. History is knocking again, and this time even the federation president is rushing in to stop the fire.
Reminder: Will Ronaldo play against Wales? Jorge Jesus gives his answer
Miguel Solomons
Dailysports's expert