Pedro Proença, President of the Portuguese Football Federation, has stepped in to defuse the rift between Cristiano Ronaldo and manager Jorge Jesus, reaffirming that the national team captain remains central to the team’s plans and could return in the upcoming international break.
Proença’s comments followed Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway, marking their fourth consecutive UEFA Nations League win—a period in which Ronaldo missed half the matches after departing the squad’s camp following a disagreement with the manager.
“The Portuguese Federation resolves its issues internally. What happened was merely a misunderstanding and must be handled behind closed doors,” Proença said.
He added: “We are talking about the greatest player in history, someone who has given Portuguese football more than two decades. Cristiano Ronaldo is the ultimate symbol of Portuguese identity.”
He continued: “His presence in the national team is based on merit and sporting ability, which is unquestionable. He will remain part of this group whenever he is fit and able to contribute.”
“Cristiano is the team’s flag bearer and captained the side in the first of these four matches. He could have ended his international career after the World Cup, but he didn’t out of love for the national team,” Proença remarked.
He proceeded: “I can attest to the bond he shares with the Portuguese people and our national team. He is an integral part of Portuguese football heritage and will always be there whenever the coach calls upon him.”
Proença emphasized that the conclusion of the international fixtures provides all parties with an opportunity for dialogue, stating: “We now have the time and calm to sit down together, discuss what happened, and clear up the misunderstanding.”
He concluded: “There is a very strong relationship between Jesus and Ronaldo—had that not been the case, Cristiano might have left the national team permanently. What we want is for everyone to reunite with the national team in November.”
