Why Cristiano Ronaldo Is Missing Portugal's Match Against Norway

Jorge Jesus has kicked off his tenure as Portugal manager with three straight wins. His debut was a narrow victory over Wales, followed by away wins against Norway and Denmark. Portugal currently leads their UEFA Nations League group with a perfect record.

Still, not everything has gone smoothly during Jesus’s early days in charge.

The Ronaldo Absence

The spotlight has been on Cristiano Ronaldo, who will once again miss Portugal's upcoming game versus Norway. The 41-year-old forward’s absence is linked to tensions that have unfolded during the international break.

What Happened Between Ronaldo and Jesus?

Ronaldo’s fiery nature flared up after being left out of the starting lineup for the reverse fixture against Norway last week. After a poor performance against Wales, which saw him subbed off early, Jesus benched him for the following match in Oslo.

Although Jesus promised Ronaldo some minutes, the veteran striker did not enter the field during Portugal’s 2–1 victory. Jesus chose to protect the slim lead rather than risk changing the game dynamic late on.

"I can promise whatever I want, I'm the coach," Jesus said post-match. "No player will ever make a decision for me."

Ronaldo did not take the decision well. Upset by both his exclusion and Jesus’s comments, he left the Portugal camp immediately, ruling himself out of the 4–2 win over Denmark and the upcoming home match against Norway.

Ronaldo stated on social media: "After the press conference of the National Team coach, and following a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I decided to leave the National Team camp. In due time, I will tell all the Portuguese about the reasons that motivated my departure from the national team, which I always dedicated myself to. Now it’s time to wish good luck to Portugal and all my teammates, without exception."

Supporters Back Ronaldo

Given Ronaldo’s 23 years of service and legendary status in Portugal, many fans have rallied behind him. Supporters have even put up billboards around Lisbon and nearby areas with messages like:

• Thank you Cristiano Ronaldo for everything you’ve done for Portugal.
• You will always be our captain.
• Portugal is always with you.

The billboards also criticized Jesus, accusing him of "mistreating" Ronaldo and having an "inflated ego."

This ongoing dispute continues to grab headlines and raises questions about Ronaldo’s future with the national team, especially with key matches ahead against teams like Erling Haaland’s Norway.