Portugal’s midfielder Bruno Fernandes hailed Cristiano Ronaldo as the country’s greatest symbol. Ronaldo left Portugal’s camp after coach Jesus Jorge confirmed that he would be benched again for the Thursday clash against Denmark. On last Thursday, Ronaldo started and played 67 minutes in 1-0 win against Wales.
After the match, Jorge said he planned for Ronaldo to play but not start against Norway. The veteran went straight down the tunnel from the substitute’s bench after not playing in 2-1 win against Norway on Sunday.
Ronaldo announced his exit in a statement on Wednesday but revealed he would explain the reasons for his decision “in due course.”
Meanwhile, Portugal continued their rich form in the Nations League as they registered with a 4-2 victory over Denmark on Thursday night.
“To put an end to this matter once and for all, I don’t need to speak with my colleagues,” Fernandes said at a news conference, as reported by Portuguese media.
“We know how to manage our situations. We have a situation that has nothing to do with the players, and our most important role is to deliver results.”
Fernandes continued: “I had a conversation with Cris. What I told him is that the most important thing, regardless of what happens, is that he will never cease to be the greatest symbol of our national team and country, for everything he has done in Portugal and around the world.
“He has a reserved place not only among the best of all time, but also in the hearts of the Portuguese people.
“We cannot divide ourselves; the national team is one, and all parties should resolve their issues behind closed doors. I think that’s how it will be, and that everything will end well on both sides.
“We are out of the matter; we spend a lot of time playing cards and are outside the controversy surrounding this issue, but I ask that the country not be divided, not make choices, and accept all sides.
“Cris will always be the greatest icon of our national team, of world football, and deserves the respect of all Portuguese people, regardless of who likes him more or less.”
Portugal will next host Norway in Porto on Sunday.
