A tense atmosphere prevails within the Portuguese national team camp following the sudden departure of star and captain Cristiano Ronaldo, which sparked fan outrage after he appeared as a substitute against Norway in the UEFA Nations League.
Coinciding with this controversy and the division among fans, coach Jorge Jesus’s seasoned squad achieved a resounding victory over Denmark, in the absence of the 41-year-old striker, with a scoreline of (4-2) last Saturday.
What did Bruno Fernandes say about the Ronaldo crisis?
Bruno Fernandes, Portugal’s midfielder and Manchester United player, addressed this issue at a press conference ahead of the return match against Norway, seeking to set things right and offer his full support to his former club and national team teammate.
Bruno Fernandes said: “Regarding Cristiano, I spoke with him. What I told him, and what I repeat here, is that the most important thing is that no matter what happens, Cristiano Ronaldo will remain a great symbol for our national team, Portuguese football, and our country, given what he has achieved not only in Portugal but around the world.”
The attacking midfield star added: “What I ask is that the country does not become divided or take sides. Cristiano is and will always be the greatest symbol of Portuguese and global football. He deserves the respect of every Portuguese person, whether they love him or not.”
He concluded on this matter: “Our national team is united, not divided. Matters must be settled internally and end well for both parties. We had to withstand the pressure caused by the quality of the Norwegian team’s performance; they are a team brimming with talent and featuring high-caliber players.”
