Cristiano Ronaldo did not train with the Portugal squad ahead of their Nations League match against Denmark. The captain and forward completed individual gym work at the team hotel, the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) confirmed.
The absence of the Al Nassr player has increased uncertainty over his status in the team, following his role as an unused substitute in the 2-1 victory over Norway on 27 September. In that match, which put Portugal top of Nations League Group A4 with six points, Ronaldo warmed up but did not get on the pitch, heading straight to the dressing room after the final whistle without joining his teammates in thanking the fans.
Jesus and Ronaldo held talks
Manager Jorge Jesus had informed the 41-year-old before the Norway game that he would be used for around 30 minutes. After the match, Jesus and Ronaldo had the opportunity to talk, a dialogue which, according to sources close to the delegation, helped ease some tension. The situation even led FPF president Pedro Proença to change his travel plans. "Travelled to Copenhagen on Tuesday, amidst tension and uncertainty involving Cristiano Ronaldo and Jorge Jesus in the national squad," Proença said.
For Thursday's match at 19:45 Lisbon time at Parken Stadium, Jesus will also have to contend with other absentees. João Félix, who scored the opening goal in the win over Norway, only did recovery work and did not take part in team training. Francisco Conceição, injured in the same game, was also absent and is expected to miss the Denmark fixture.
The next fixture, against Denmark, is key to consolidate their lead in the Nations League group stage.
The match will be officiated by Ukrainian referee Mykola Balakin. The coaching staff now hope the situation with the captain will be clarified before the decisive match.
This story first appeared at Khel Now
