Fernandes hails Ronaldo as Portugal's 'greatest symbol' after Nations League walkout

Bruno Fernandes has broken his silence on Cristiano Ronaldo’s fallout with Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus, calling the 41-year-old the “greatest symbol of our national team and country for everything he has done in Portugal and around the world.”

Ronaldo walked out of the Portugal camp after being left unused during the 2-1 Nations League victory over Norway. Portugal subsequently beat Denmark 4-2 in his absence, while Ronaldo posted on Instagram that he would “in due course… tell all the Portuguese people the truth about the reasons” behind his decision to leave.

Fernandes, who captains Manchester United and played alongside Ronaldo during his second spell at Old Trafford, was unequivocal in his admiration for his compatriot. “He has a reserved place not only among the best of all time, but also in the hearts of the Portuguese people,” the midfielder added.

The comments represent a notable shift in tone from Fernandes, who was conspicuously guarded when Ronaldo left United acrimoniously four years ago following his interview with Piers Morgan. At the time, Fernandes refused to take sides: “I don’t feel uncomfortable. I don’t have to pick a side. It was a dream come true to play with Cristiano but nothing lasts forever.” Footage also emerged of the pair sharing an awkward handshake as they linked up for international duty, though Fernandes later insisted it was a joke and that there was no issue between them.

When asked directly about any tension with Ronaldo after a 4-0 win over Nigeria, Fernandes told reporters: “I have no problem with anyone. I do my job and as a manager once said to me, everything that you can control is yourself.”

The prospect of a reconciliation between Ronaldo and Jesus now appears remote. Jesus had indicated he was willing to meet Ronaldo, but only after the Norway fixture. Ronaldo reportedly rejected peace talks with his former Al-Nassr manager and arranged to fly back to Saudi Arabia on a private jet. A proposed meeting in Madrid, reported by Portuguese outlet Record, is said to be unlikely to materialise.

With the rift deepening, Fernandes and Ronaldo may have already played together for the last time at international level.