Portugal coach Jorge Jesus revealed he was caught off guard by Cristiano Ronaldo's announcement of his retirement from international football. Speaking at a news conference on Friday, Jesus stated he learned about Ronaldo's decision through an Instagram video, just a day before he was set to announce his squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures.

• Jesus expressed his surprise:

I found out when we all did. Until then, I knew nothing about it. He was playing, he was scoring goals; he was one of the players on my squad list.

Ronaldo had recently returned from a 30-day suspension from international play, a period that coincided with no actual national team games. His last appearance was during a 1-0 victory over Wales on September 24, where he added to his record of 146 goals in 234 games for Portugal, the highest in men's international football.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner had previously left the Portugal camp in September after being informed he would not start against Denmark in a Nations League match. He later claimed that Jesus had "broken his word" regarding his playing time but accepted the consequences of his early departure, asserting he was not retiring at that moment.

As journalists pressed Jesus about the situation, he maintained his stance:

All my decisions were made with the team in mind. As a manager, I have always defended what was best for the team. I am at peace with my decision.

In response to Ronaldo's retirement, Pedro Proenca, president of the Portuguese Football Federation, expressed gratitude for Ronaldo's contributions:

No tribute will ever be enough to thank him for everything he has done for Portuguese football, for Portugal. Thank you for everything, captain. This is and always will be your home.