Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes has expressed his admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, describing him as the country's greatest footballing symbol. Fernandes made these comments during a news conference on Saturday, following Ronaldo's departure from the Portugal squad. Ronaldo, 41, left after coach Jorge Jesus said he would not start against Denmark in the Nations League, a match Portugal won 4-2 without him.
Fernandes revealed that he had a conversation with Ronaldo, during which he told him that he would always be regarded as the greatest symbol of Portuguese football. Fernandes emphasized that Ronaldo's contributions to Portuguese football, both domestically and internationally, are undeniable. He also urged the country not to divide itself over the controversy surrounding Ronaldo's departure from the squad.
Ronaldo has had a illustrious career with Portugal, scoring 146 goals in 234 matches, both record figures. He has helped Portugal win several titles, including Euro 2016 and the Nations League twice. However, his international future now appears to be in doubt. Fernandes' comments suggest that Ronaldo's legacy in Portuguese football is secure, regardless of his current status.
Fernandes also emphasized the importance of unity within the national team. He stated that there are no divisions within the team and that they will remain united despite any external noise. Fernandes urged the country to respect all sides and not make choices that could lead to division.
Portugal won the Nations League in 2019 and are the current holders after they beat Spain in the 2025 final on penalties. Ronaldo scored one of Portugal's goals in the final, which ended 2-2 after regular time. The team has had a successful run in recent years, but Ronaldo's departure from the squad has raised questions about their future prospects.
Coach Jorge Jesus said that Ronaldo was a "symbol of Portugal" and that there would be time to discuss his future after Sunday's game against Norway. Jesus, who had been Ronaldo's club manager at Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr, replaced Roberto Martinez as Portugal's coach for the Nations League campaign. Jesus emphasized that his focus is on the team and the upcoming match against Norway.
Portugal will play Norway at home on Sunday, followed by matches against Denmark and Wales later this month. If they finish in the top two in their group, they will qualify for the quarter-finals in March. Fernandes and his teammates will be looking to secure a strong finish to the group phase and make a deep run in the competition.
Key points
- Cristiano Ronaldo will always be regarded as the greatest symbol of Portuguese football, according to Bruno Fernandes.
- Ronaldo's international future is uncertain after he left the Portugal squad this week.
- Portugal will play Norway at home on Sunday, followed by matches against Denmark and Wales later this month.
