Bruno Fernandes has opened up about his conversation with Cristiano Ronaldo following the Portugal captain’s controversial departure from the national team camp.
Ronaldo left the Portugal camp after learning that he would not start against Denmark, creating plenty of discussion around his relationship with head coach Jorge Jesus and his future with the national team.
Fernandes, who wore the captain’s armband in Ronaldo’s absence, revealed that he spoke directly to the five-time Ballon d’Or winner. The Manchester United midfielder made it clear that Ronaldo’s importance to Portuguese football remains unquestionable.
Fernandes said Ronaldo will never stop being the greatest symbol of Portugal, its national team and its football because of everything he has achieved throughout his remarkable career.
The midfielder also rejected suggestions that there is a split within the Portugal squad, insisting that the players remain united and that issues surrounding Ronaldo should be dealt with internally.
Ronaldo’s situation has become one of the biggest talking points in international football, particularly with the 41-year-old still playing an important role for Portugal. He remains the country’s all-time leading goalscorer and most-capped men’s international.
While Fernandes has now taken on greater leadership responsibility when Ronaldo is unavailable, his comments show the level of respect that remains for the Portugal legend.
With major international fixtures ahead, the spotlight will remain firmly on Ronaldo, Fernandes and Jorge Jesus as Portugal look to move forward while managing one of the biggest stories surrounding their national team.
