Cristiano Ronaldo set for showdown meeting with manager after being an unused sub for first time in 18 years

Superstar footballer Cristiano Ronaldo is set for an emergency meeting today with national boss Jorge Jesus and the head of the Portuguese FA  after he was left on the bench against Norway. 

The 41-year-old captain was an unused substitute for his team’s 2-1 win over Norway in the Nations League on Sunday.

It was the first time in 18 years that Ronaldo has not featured at all for Portugal after being named in a matchday squad.

Reports in Portugal suggest that new boss Jorge Jesus had originally planned to bring on the veteran striker for a 30-minute cameo. He opted against that idea in the end.

Goncalo Ramos started the game and was only withdrawn in the 81st minute.

But instead of turning to Ronaldo, Jesus brought on Francisco Trincao.

The decision was validated by Portugal holding on to win the game – but Ronaldo’s anger has led to FA chief Pedro Proenca hurriedly changing his travel plans to sit down for a three-way meeting on Wednesday, according to Portuguese newspaper Record. 

Proenca was due to fly to the Azores for an Under-21s match, but dealing with Ronaldo’s discontent has changed his plans.

One week ago, Ronaldo reiterated his commitment to the national team and explained why he did not retire from international football after the World Cup.

He said: “I had a conversation with our president, with our coach (about his future). 

“I still believe that I’m able to help the national team to reach what they want, and will finish when I feel like I’m not doing anything here.

“I think I can give to the national team my support, not only through the goals, but also outside of football.

“This is a new young generation. But for me the basic point is to be able on the pitch to score the goals and to help the team win games.”

Ronaldo has a record-setting 146 international goals. He has 979 career goals overall and three from his first five games of the season for Al Nassr this campaign.