In Copenhagen, where Portugal’s Nations League campaign had briefly acquired an unwanted edge, Cristiano Ronaldo and Jorge Jesus have held a meeting intended to restore calm before the national side’s next assignment against Denmark. The discussion came after the captain was left out of the starting plans for Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway and concerns emerged over his place in the squad.
Jesus had considered introducing Ronaldo during the Norway match, but said the pattern of the game prevented him from making the change. He indicated afterwards that he would speak with his captain, and the Portuguese Football Federation helped create the conditions for that conversation in the Danish capital.
The meeting is understood to have been constructive, easing the tension that had developed around Ronaldo’s unused role against Norway. Portugal federation president Pedro Proença altered plans to travel to the Azores for the under-21 side’s match, choosing instead to remain in Copenhagen while the senior squad’s internal situation was addressed.
Portugal seek stability before Denmark
Ronaldo has not joined his team-mates for work on the pitch since that encounter. The federation has confirmed that the forward has been following an individual gym programme, leaving his availability for the Denmark fixture under scrutiny.
Portugal nevertheless arrive at the third round of the UEFA Nations League in a strong position. They lead Group A4 with six points from two matches, three ahead of both Denmark and Norway. Wales remain bottom without a point.
Once the Denmark match is complete, Portugal are scheduled to meet Norway again on Sunday. For Jesus and his captain, the aim in the meantime is less about public drama than preserving the balance of a side that has opened the group with two wins.
