Fernandes urges unity as Ronaldo’s Portugal future remains unclear

Bruno Fernandes has urged Portugal to respect differing views over Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure from the squad, saying the forward remains the country’s greatest footballing symbol.

Fernandes told reporters on Saturday that he had spoken with Ronaldo and asked the country not to deepen divisions over the incident. He said the national team remained united despite the noise outside it.

Ronaldo left the squad after learning he would not start against Denmark, according to Al Jazeera. Portugal won that match 4–2. Ronaldo is the team’s leading goalscorer and most capped player, and his future with Portugal is unclear.

Portugal also beat Norway without Ronaldo starting and are due to face them again on Sunday. Coach Jorge Jesus said he would focus on the team and the Norwegian opponent before discussing Ronaldo after the match.