Cristiano Ronaldo apologises and opens Portugal return door

Cristiano Ronaldo has apologised for leaving Portugal’s training camp and said he remains available for the national team. His return would depend on his physical condition and completion of the suspension that follows his departure, as Portugal considers disciplinary action against its captain.

The 41-year-old said he accepted full responsibility for walking out and apologised to Portugal’s supporters and his international teammates. He said coach Jorge Jesus had promised him 30 minutes against Norway in the Nations League, then sent him to warm up without eventually bringing him on. Ronaldo said that decision made him feel his presence was no longer helping the group, prompting him to leave.

Ronaldo also said the Portuguese federation should judge and punish his conduct without reducing the sanction. He argued that his status as captain should make the offence more serious rather than provide protection from punishment.

Portugal have won all four of their Nations League matches, including the last three without Ronaldo, and have already secured a place in the quarter-finals with two group fixtures still to play. The team’s results have strengthened its position while Ronaldo’s statement keeps open the possibility of his return once the suspension is served.