Cristiano Ronaldo has issued a lengthy statement following his decision to walk out on the Portuguese national team, acknowledging his mistakes and saying he should be punished for his actions. The veteran forward turned his back on the squad last week after a reported breakdown in trust with coach Jorge Jesus over playing time.
Apology to Fans and Teammates
In a statement released on Tuesday night, Ronaldo apologised to supporters for not acknowledging them after a match against Norway, instead walking straight down the tunnel. He said: “At the end of the match I only wanted everything to finish with the victory and to be alone. I did not go to greet the fans.
“A failing that is solely my responsibility and that should not have happened. I apologise to the Portuguese who supported us intensely there, I apologise to the fans, and I apologise to those who, without being Portuguese, may have travelled there to see me and whom I may have disappointed.”
Ronaldo also apologised to his national team teammates for leaving the camp, stating: “I also owe an apology to my national team teammates for having left the camp. Despite the absolute breach of trust in the coach’s word, as those who witnessed these conversations can attest, I should not have done it.
Accepting Consequences
Ronaldo explained his reasoning, saying: “The responsibility is exclusively mine. I apologise to the Portuguese people once again, but the breaking of one’s word has, for me, a defining impact. I felt that, from that point on, my remaining would only harm the working group, and I did what I have always said I would do if I did not feel useful: I packed my bags and left.”
He added: “The consequence of this act of mine must be assessed and punished by the Portuguese Football Federation. I understand that the punishment should have no mitigating factors. I am not just any player; I am team captain, and that constitutes an aggravating factor.
“I have already apologised, but I know that attitudes must have consequences. Anyone who is in football as I am knows that, regardless of each person’s status, the rules are the same for everyone.”
