Ronaldo steps aside as the Portugal national team has a new number 7.
The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) confirmed that Rafael Leão will wear the number 7 jersey for Portugal in the UEFA Nations League match against Denmark on Thursday night, following Cristiano Ronaldo’s withdrawal from the team on Wednesday.
The 41-year-old Ronaldo played in the Nations League opener against Wales but was an unused substitute in the 27 September victory over Norway. This caused Ronaldo’s displeasure with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus, who had promised him playing time in the last 30 minutes of that match. The disagreement created tension in the national camp, leading Ronaldo to immediately pack up and leave.
Ronaldo inherited the number 7 from Portugal legend Luís Figo in 2008 and went on to score 146 goals in 234 appearances for the national team.
It remains uncertain if Ronaldo will return to the national team. Portugal is scheduled to play Denmark tonight in the Nations League, followed by a home match against Norway on Sunday.
Currently playing for Al Nassr in the Saudi Arabian league, Ronaldo aims to reach 1,000 career goals before retiring.
