Farewell match under Scolari? Portuguese Football Federation mulls new move

LISBON: The Portuguese Football Federation’s plans to organise a farewell match for legendary star Cristiano Ronaldo hit a setback. The Federation had intended to arrange a farewell match for Cristiano in his home country, much like the one the Argentine Football Association organised for Lionel Messi. However, media reports indicate that Cristiano decided not to play again for a team coached by Jorge Jesus. It is rumoured that Cristiano believes it was Jesus who pushed him to retirement.

Last Thursday, at the age of 41, Cristiano Ronaldo bid farewell to international football. A rift developed between Ronaldo and coach Jorge Jesus during a Nations League match against Wales; although Ronaldo was made to warm up, he was not brought onto the pitch. Jesus further clarified that the player would not feature in the match against Denmark either. Following this, Ronaldo left the squad. As he departed without permission, the federation imposed a 30-day ban on him. Once the suspension period concluded, Ronaldo was included in the squad for this month's matches. However, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner announced his retirement before the team announcement, without even giving the coach any prior indication.

Although Federation President Pedro Proença attempted to resolve the issue, Ronaldo refused to engage in discussions. The Federation is also trying to organise a farewell match under the guidance of a different coach, probably Luiz Felipe Scolari, who shares a good relationship with Ronaldo. However, the question facing the Federation is whether the current coach, Jorge Jesus, will cooperate if Scolari is asked to manage the team for just one game.