Portugal boss Jorge Jesus insisted he does not feel guilt over his part in the saga that preceded Cristiano Ronaldos retirement from international football.Ronaldo, whose 146 international goals mark an all-time record, announced his retirement from Portugal duty this week.The Al-Nassr star made his final appearance for Portugal in Septembers 1-0 Nations League win over Wales, before Jesus decision to leave Ronaldo as an unused substitute in their subsequent game with Norway sparked the row that essentially ended the 41-year-olds international career.Having gone straight down the tunnel after being left on the bench for the win over Norway, Ronaldo left the Portugal camp in Copenhagen on the eve of their clash with Denmark. Ronaldo, who accused Jesus of breaking his word, was fined 255 (�215; $286) and given a 30-day ban by the Portuguese Football Federation.It was expected that conciliatory talks would see Ronaldo return for Portugals final Nations League group games with Denmark and Wales this month.But he instead elected to quit, though Jesus has no regrets.Jesus, who also previously worked with Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, said: Maybe I rushed things, but [his retirement was] not because of me. It was in his head, more call-ups, fewer call-ups.We also talked about it a few times. And if it was going to happen. But no, I dont feel guilty about anything regarding his departure. I respect his decision.And, as such, his story cannot be ignored. He will always be a symbol and I have built a strong friendship with him over this year and a half.Jesus confirmed he planned to select Ronaldo for the upcoming games and had no advance warning about his retirement.I found out when we all did, Jesus added. Until then, I knew nothing about it.He was playing, he was scoring goals; he was one of the players on my squad list.All my decisions were made with the team in mind. As a manager, I have always defended what was best for the team. I am at peace with my decision. Topics Cristiano Ronaldo Jorge Jesus Portugal National Football Team If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Portugal boss Jesus tried to talk Ronaldo out of international retirement Jon Fisher 5th November, 2026 Cristiano Ronaldo announces retirement from international football Jon Fisher 5th November, 2026 Al-Nassr 5-3 Al Kholood: Ronaldo moves closer to 1,000 goals with late hat-trick 101 GreatGoals 29th October, 2026 Al Nassr vs Al Kholood: Confirmed line ups and teams Ben Miller 29th October, 2026 Cristiano Ronaldo: Al Nassr full Saudi Pro League fixtures 2026/27, confirmed match schedule, kick off times, TV channel and online live streams Ben Miller 29th October, 2026 Manchester United boss Carrick talks Bruno Fernandes decision Ben Miller 29th October, 2026
