Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has rejected the idea that Cristiano Ronaldo’s farewell from the Portugal national team, which followed his clash with coach Jorge Jesus, was a bittersweet one.
Speaking in an interview with EFE ahead of Spain’s final two Nations League group matches, against the Czech Republic and England, De la Fuente said, “No, no way, God forbid,” to the idea.
Ronaldo announced that he was prepared to pass Portugal’s iconic number seven shirt on to the next generation of players.
In his farewell message, he said:
“To the Portuguese people, the day has come for me to return our national team’s No. 7 shirt.”
He added, “This was not an easy decision, because some decisions are made not only with the mind, but also with the heart.”
He also expressed gratitude to his teammates, coaches, family, and Portuguese supporters for backing him throughout his international career.
Portugal: 'God forbid' - Spain coach De la Fuente on Cristiano Ronaldo retirement