Fernandes: Ronaldo remains Portugal's greatest football symbol
Portugal's Bruno Fernandes defended Cristiano Ronaldo after the striker left the national team camp this week upon learning he would not start against Denmark. Fernandes called for the country to stop taking sides over the issue.
Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes has publicly backed Cristiano Ronaldo following a controversial episode in which the 41-year-old forward left the national squad's camp this week after being told by coach Jorge Jesus that he would not start the Nations League match against Denmark. Portugal went on to win that game 4-2 without him.
Ronaldo remains Portugal's all-time leading figure, having scored 146 goals in 234 appearances — both national records — and having helped the country win Euro 2016 and two Nations League titles. Even so, his future with the national team now looks uncertain following this latest development.
Speaking at a Portugal news conference on Saturday, Manchester United's Fernandes said he had personally spoken with Ronaldo. He stated that regardless of what happens next, Ronaldo will never stop being the greatest symbol of Portuguese football and of the country itself, given everything he has achieved both at home and internationally. Fernandes added that Ronaldo has earned a place among the greatest players of all time and in the hearts of the Portuguese people.
The midfielder urged the public not to divide itself over the Ronaldo situation or take sides, insisting the national team remains united despite outside noise. Fernandes said the squad stands apart from the controversy but asked that the country respect all perspectives on the matter.
Portugal are the reigning Nations League champions, having beaten Spain on penalties in the 2025 final after a 2-2 draw in which Ronaldo scored one of the team's goals. At this year's World Cup, Portugal reached the last 16 before losing 1-0 to eventual champions Spain, with then-manager Roberto Martinez criticised for rarely substituting Ronaldo during that tournament.
Jesus, who had previously managed Ronaldo at Saudi club Al-Nassr, took over from Martinez for the Nations League campaign. Under Jesus, Portugal began with a 1-0 home win over Wales, during which Ronaldo played the first 67 minutes. He was then an unused substitute in a 2-1 away win over Norway before leaving the camp ahead of the Denmark match.
