Bruno Fernandes has insisted that Cristiano Ronaldo remains “the greatest symbol” of Portugal’s national team, even after choosing to leave the squad this week.
Ronaldo announced on Wednesday that he had departed the training camp after Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus informed him that he would not be in the starting lineup against Denmark. Portugal secured a 4-2 Nations League victory in his absence, leaving uncertainty over Ronaldo’s international career.
Fernandes, the Manchester United midfielder, urged supporters to remain united following several turbulent days in which opinions among Portuguese fans have been divided over Ronaldo’s actions and the future of the country’s record goalscorer and most-capped male player.
“I spoke with Cristiano, and my message to him was the same one I am sharing now: whatever happens, Cristiano Ronaldo will always be the greatest representative of our national team, our football and our country because of everything he has achieved in Portugal and around the world,” Fernandes told reporters on Saturday.
“His place is secure not only among the finest players in history, but also in the hearts of the Portuguese people,” Fernandes continued. “What matters most is that we stop creating divisions. This national team is united and will continue to be, regardless of any outside speculation.”
“We are not involved in this dispute, but I am asking the country not to take sides or become divided, and instead to respect every point of view. Cristiano is, and will remain, the leading icon of our national team. He deserves respect from everyone, whether they admire him more or less.”
Portugal defeated Norway 2-1 in Oslo last Sunday while Ronaldo remained on the bench. They then earned a 4-2 win in Copenhagen following his exit from the squad, with Fernandes serving as captain. The reigning Nations League champions will meet Norway once more on Sunday in Porto.
Jorge Jesus, who previously coached Ronaldo at Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr before taking charge of Portugal, described the 41-year-old as a “symbol of Portugal.” He added that there would be an opportunity to discuss the forward after the match against Norway.
“My attention is on our team and on Norway, our opponent and one of Europe’s five strongest sides. That is the immediate priority,” the 72-year-old coach said.
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