Portugal forward, Cristiano Ronaldo Photo : Fabrizio Romano
Portugal Football Federation president Pedro Proença has backed Cristiano Ronaldo to resolve his disagreement with national team coach Jorge Jesus, insisting the forward remains a key figure for the country despite his recent suspension.
Proença reaffirmed Ronaldo’s importance to Portuguese football while speaking at a federation event in Funchal, the 41-year-old forward’s birthplace, according to Goal.com on Monday.
“We are in the home of the greatest asset Portuguese football has ever produced: Cristiano Ronaldo, our captain,” Proença said, as quoted by ESPN.
“Our captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, is one of our key pieces,” he added.
Ronaldo’s relationship with Jesus reportedly deteriorated during the recent international break following disagreements over playing time. The forward subsequently left the national team camp, prompting the federation to provisionally suspend him while reviewing the incident.
The development has raised questions about Ronaldo’s immediate future with the national team, although Proença expressed confidence that the situation could be resolved.
Ronaldo has also indicated his willingness to accept any disciplinary action imposed by the federation following its review.
Despite the dispute, the former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward has reiterated his desire to continue representing Portugal at international level.
Tosin Oyediran is a journalist with Punch Newspapers, bringing over eight years of newsroom experience to his coverage of politics, health, advocacy, sports, and entertainment. Known for sharp interviews and human-centered reporting, his work focuses on public accountability, civic issues, and the stories shaping everyday lives.
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