Ronaldo greatest icon, Fernandes says, stresses unity after camp exit
Abdullateef Fowewe
Portugal captain Bruno Fernandes has moved to quell speculation of a rift in the national team, insisting the squad is “united, not divided” after Cristiano Ronaldo left the recent camp amid a dispute with head coach Jorge Jesus over his bench role.
In a statement addressing the fallout, Fernandes said he spoke directly with Ronaldo and told him, “I spoke with Cristiano Ronaldo and told him that he is and will always remain the greatest icon of our national team and our country.”
He added, “Our national team is united, not divided,” seeking to counter narratives of a split following Ronaldo’s early departure from camp.
Fernandes emphasised that internal issues should be handled behind closed doors, especially with Nations League tensions in the background.
“Matters must be resolved internally and conclude well for both parties,” he said, underlining the need for discretion to protect the team’s interests.
He added, “Cristiano Ronaldo deserves the respect of all Portuguese people, regardless of who likes him more or likes him less”.
The comments come as Portugal prepares for crucial Nations League fixtures, with attention focused on how the federation manages the relationship between its all-time leading scorer and the new coaching setup under Jorge Jesus.
