By Ghazali Ibrahim
Cristiano Ronaldo has left the Portugal national team camp following a reported conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation.
Ronaldo announced his decision in a statement after the national team coach’s press conference, saying he had decided to leave the camp after speaking with the federation president.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, however, did not disclose the reasons behind his departure, saying he would reveal the full details at a later time.
“In due time, I will tell the truth to all Portuguese people about the reasons that motivated my departure from the national team,” Ronaldo said.
The 41-year-old forward stressed that his commitment to Portugal had always been strong, adding that he had dedicated himself to the national team throughout his career.
Ronaldo also wished Portugal and his teammates well, making it clear that his message was not directed at any particular member of the squad.
“Now is the time to wish good luck to Portugal and to all my teammates, without exception,” he added.
His sudden departure is expected to raise questions over what transpired between the Portugal coach, the federation and the veteran forward before his decision to leave the camp.
