Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes has revealed what he told captain and international teammate Cristiano Ronaldo following the forward’s decision to withdraw from the national team.
Ronaldo reportedly left the Portugal camp after the UEFA Nations League clash with Denmark following a disagreement with manager Jorge Jesus.
Spanish journalist Edu Aguirre claimed that Jesus had affected Ronaldo’s confidence after the striker was left on the bench during Portugal’s game against Norway.
According to reports, Jesus and Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença held discussions with Ronaldo, with the manager initially agreeing to publicly acknowledge his mistake before taking a different position during a subsequent press conference.
The development reportedly angered Ronaldo and contributed to his decision to leave the national team’s training camp.
The 41-year-old has indicated that the circumstances surrounding his departure will eventually become public.
In Ronaldo’s absence, Portugal defeated Denmark 4-2, with Fernandes captaining the team.
Fernandes has now spoken about his conversation with Ronaldo, assuring him that he remains the country’s greatest football icon.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Fernandes said: “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.
“Our national team is united, not divided. Matters must be resolved internally and conclude well for both parties.”
Portugal will face Norway in Porto on Sunday in their next UEFA Nations League fixture, having won all three matches during the current international period.
