BREAKING NEWS: Cristiano Ronaldo has left the Portugal national team camp in a dramatic and emotional moment, just days after being benched against Norway.
Fabrizio Romano confirmed today that UEFA has listed Rafael Leao as the new Portugal No.7 for the upcoming Nations League games against Denmark and Norway.
What Happened?
Ronaldo was an unused substitute in Portugal's 2-1 victory over Norway. After the game, he walked straight down the tunnel without celebrating with teammates.
He missed the next training session and later had a meeting with the Portuguese Football Federation president.
In a statement on Instagram, Ronaldo wrote: "After the coach's press conference and a conversation with the president of the Portuguese federation, I decided to leave the team camp."
Rafael Leao Takes Over No.7
According to Portuguese outlet B24, Rafael Leao will wear Ronaldo's iconic No.7 shirt against Denmark in Copenhagen.
Leao himself said he tried to decline the number out of respect for Ronaldo. He said: "I tried my best to respect this number" because Ronaldo is his idol since he was a child.
UEFA rules require all 23 players to wear numbers 1-23, so Portugal had to reassign the number.
Is This The End For Ronaldo and Portugal?
No, this is not retirement. Ronaldo has not announced retirement from international football. It is a temporary departure due to disagreement with new coach Jorge Jesus over playing time.
He is still active with Al-Nassr and is expected to return in November if issues are resolved.
Portugal's social media lost 500,000 followers after the announcement, showing how important Ronaldo is to the team.
What Fans Are Saying
Many fans believe Leao is the future of Portugal, but taking Ronaldo's No.7 is huge pressure. Leao has 50 caps and 6 goals for Portugal and is now at Galatasaray after leaving AC Milan.
Is this the start of a new era for Portugal without Ronaldo? Or will the GOAT return?
What do you think? Should Ronaldo return as No.7 or should Leao keep it?
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