Mehdi Benatia has spoken out over Cristiano Ronaldo’s sudden departure from the Portugal camp, saying he hopes the former Juventus team-mate returns to the national side and is given the recognition he deserves.
Ronaldo’s decision to leave the squad after Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway has prompted widespread debate about the captain’s international future and highlighted tensions surrounding the team.
The Al-Nassr forward was an unused substitute as Portugal beat Norway. He left the team’s camp in Copenhagen after a news conference held by manager Jorge Jesus, who said he had the final say over team selection.
Ronaldo departed the camp several hours later in his private plane, turning the incident into a major talking point in Portugal and prompting questions about whether the 41-year-old’s international career will continue.
Benatia, a former Morocco captain who played alongside Ronaldo at Juventus and now works as a football analyst for Canal+, said he wanted to see the Portugal forward remain involved with his country.
“I hope we see Cristiano Ronaldo back in the national team and that he gets the ending he deserves,” Benatia said in comments reported by French website Foot Mercato.
The former Morocco defender’s remarks reflect his wish for Ronaldo to continue his international career and receive a fitting tribute for his contribution to Portugal over many years.
His comments came as attention in Portugal focused on the next step from Ronaldo and the national team following the events in Copenhagen. The circumstances of his departure, coming after he had remained on the bench against Norway, have intensified discussion about his position within the squad.
Benatia’s comments were also shared by Canal+ Foot on 2 October 2026 alongside an analysis of the situation involving the Portugal national team. The post described Benatia as Ronaldo’s former team-mate at Juventus and included his appeal for the forward to return to international duty.
Ronaldo’s absence from the starting line-up, Jesus’ statement about his authority over selection and the player’s subsequent departure all occurred within a short period after Portugal’s win. Together, they have led to increased uncertainty over the future of one of the country’s most prominent players with the national team.
For now, Benatia has made clear that he would prefer Ronaldo’s international story to continue, with the Portugal captain receiving what he considers an appropriate farewell and recognition for his long service.
