Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has made it clear that Cristiano Ronaldo will not dictate his decisions, saying he remains the person in charge of team selection.
Speaking ahead of Thursday’s UEFA Nations League game against Denmark at Parken Stadium in Copenhagen, Jesus said he had already told Ronaldo he would not start against Norway and Denmark.
He said the decision was based on managing the 41-year-old’s physical condition, adding that he had handled Ronaldo’s workload in a similar way while in Saudi Arabia.
“I told him (Ronaldo) that he would not start the matches against Norway and Denmark. I worked for a year with Cris. I know his physical condition perfectly. I was already doing that in Saudi Arabia, when we were playing every three days… And I mentioned to him that he would be there where and when the need arose. And that is what happened,” Jesus said.
Jesus also dismissed reports of Ronaldo’s frustration after Portugal’s 2-1 win over Norway.
“I can promise whatever I want. I am the coach,” Jesus said.
He added: “There is no player who will change my ideas, neither him nor anyone else in football, not even any president, that will never happen.”
Jesus said Ronaldo’s status and career would not earn him special treatment.
“Status is one thing, but the rules are the same for everyone. Status comes from his past and his career… One must pay attention, but I always decide according to the team’s goal.
“I am the one who decides. Whoever has worked with me knows that. At the club, the president is the one who gives the orders, but in the team, I am the one who gives the orders.”
Asked if Ronaldo could replace Goncalo Ramos against Denmark, Jesus said: “I do not know. It depends on the match,” he said.
Ronaldo missed training on Monday and Tuesday after being left out against Norway. He was also reportedly seen heading straight to the tunnel after the match instead of joining teammates in greeting Portuguese supporters.
Jesus had earlier said he planned to use Ronaldo against Norway but did not expect him to start.
