Bruno Fernandes has urged Portugal supporters to remain united, insisting Cristiano Ronaldo’s status as the country’s greatest footballing icon will endure despite uncertainty over his international future.
Ronaldo, 41, left the national squad this week after coach Jorge Jesus told him he would not start against Denmark in the Nations League. Portugal went on to win the match 4-2.
The forward holds the international records for both appearances and goals, scoring 146 times in 234 matches.
He also helped Portugal win Euro 2016 and two Nations League titles.
Speaking at a news conference on Saturday, Fernandes revealed he had spoken with Ronaldo and reassured him that his achievements would never be diminished, whatever happens next.
The Manchester United midfielder emphasised Ronaldo’s influence on Portuguese football and his standing among the game’s greatest players, while calling for respect for everyone involved.
Fernandes also rejected suggestions of a split within the squad, saying the national team remained united despite the controversy surrounding Ronaldo’s departure.
Portugal are defending the Nations League title they won in 2025, when they beat Spain on penalties following a 2-2 draw in the final.
Ronaldo scored one of Portugal’s goals in that match, adding to their first triumph in the competition in 2019.
Their World Cup campaign this summer ended in the last 16 with a 1-0 defeat by eventual champions Spain.
Former coach Roberto Martinez faced criticism for his reluctance to substitute Ronaldo, including during below-par performances.
Jesus, who previously managed Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, succeeded Martinez ahead of the Nations League campaign.
Ronaldo played the first 67 minutes of Portugal’s opening 1-0 home victory over Wales but remained on the bench throughout their subsequent 2-1 win in Norway.
He then departed before the Denmark fixture.
Portugal lead Group A4 with a maximum nine points from three matches and host Norway in Porto on Sunday.
They complete their group campaign next month, facing Denmark at home on 14 November before travelling to Wales three days later.
A top-two finish would secure a place in March’s quarter-finals, with the semi-finals and final scheduled for June.
Jesus also recognised Ronaldo’s importance to the country but said discussions about the forward could wait until after the Norway match.
The 72-year-old coach’s immediate priority is preparing his team for an opponent he considers among Europe’s five strongest sides.
