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Cristiano Ronaldo missed full team training with the Portugal national team for the third day ahead of their UEFA Nations League match against Denmark, departing the Parken Stadium in Copenhagen aboard a Federation Portuguese de Football (FPF) van while his teammates took the pitch. A video obtained by A BOLA captured the 41-year-old forward leaving the venue accompanied by two FPF officials.
Manager Jorge Jesus Insists Ronaldo Will Play Despite Gym Sessions
Portugal manager Jorge Jesus addressed the media in Copenhagen just minutes before the training session, assuring reporters that the team captain would participate. “Yesterday he didn’t refuse to train,” Jesus said during the pre-match press conference. “Francisco Conceição didn’t train because he was injured, Félix because we tried to unload the fatigue, and Cris did gym work. He is going to train today. It’s the fourth day, so he’s going to train.”
Despite the manager’s assurances, Ronaldo did not join the squad on the grass. The FPF later explained that the stadium’s gym lacked specific equipment required for a specialized training program designed for the veteran forward. This marked a departure from the previous day in Malmo, Sweden, where Ronaldo spent several minutes on the pitch before returning to the team hotel in an FPF vehicle.
Federation President Pedro Proença Intervenes With Emergency Meeting
As media scrutiny intensified, FPF president Pedro Proença altered his schedule to manage the situation. Proença bypassed an under-21 fixture to travel back to Denmark, holding an emergency meeting with both Jesus and Ronaldo on Wednesday morning at the team hotel in Malmo. Sources described the conversation as taking place in a serene and cordial atmosphere.
Jesus maintained a firm stance on his authority regarding squad selection during his media availability. “I can promise whatever I want. I’m the coach. I’m the coach, I told the player it wasn’t to play. I’m going to take you to the bench. If I need you 30 minutes you’re going to play, if not, you’re not going to play,” Jesus stated. The manager also confirmed that Gonçalo Ramos will start against Denmark.
Squad Adjustments and Absenteeism Before Nations League Fixture
While Ronaldo’s training status remained a focal point, João Félix returned to full training as the primary positive development for the squad ahead of the third-round Nations League encounter. Proença observed the session from the stands. Meanwhile, Francisco Conceição remains confirmed as an absentee for the match due to injury.
Did You Know About Portugal’s Schedule?
Portugal’s preparations for the crucial fixture in Copenhagen involved split bases between Sweden and Denmark, prompting logistical challenges for specialized player fitness routines.
Cristiano Ronaldo misses training to work in gym
Why did Cristiano Ronaldo miss training in Copenhagen?
Ronaldo worked in the gym rather than joining the team on the pitch for the third day. The FPF stated that the Parken Stadium gym lacked specific equipment needed for his tailored training regimen.
What did manager Jorge Jesus say about Ronaldo’s availability?
Jorge Jesus insisted that Ronaldo would train and asserted his authority over team selection, stating that no player, president, or individual in football would ever alter his tactical decisions.
Who intervened in the national team camp?
FPF president Pedro Proença traveled to the team camp for an emergency meeting with Jorge Jesus and Cristiano Ronaldo at their hotel.
Which players are confirmed out for the match against Denmark?
Francisco Conceição is a confirmed absentee for the fixture due to injury.
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