Fernandes urges Portugal unity after Ronaldo's shock international walkout

Bruno Fernandes urged Portugal to stay united after Cristiano Ronaldo walked out of the national squad during the Nations League international break, following a public falling-out with manager Jorge Jesus.

Ronaldo, 41, left the camp after Jesus dropped him to the bench for Portugal’s 2-1 win over Norway on Sunday. A crisis meeting failed to resolve the dispute, and the striker subsequently posted a statement on social media saying he would “tell all” about what had happened “in time”. The 41-year-old holds a staggering 146 goals in 234 caps, making his international future a matter of significant concern in Portugal.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Portugal’s return fixture against Norway in Porto, Manchester United captain Fernandes addressed the saga directly. “We have a situation that has nothing to do with the players, and our most important role is to deliver results,” he said.

Fernandes revealed he had spoken personally with Ronaldo. “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 said.

“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.”

Fernandes also appealed directly to the Portuguese public. “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.”

The depth of ill feeling was underlined by Ronaldo’s wife, Georgina Rodriguez, who posted a pointed message about Jesus on Instagram before quickly deleting it. Jesus, 72, managed Ronaldo at Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr last season before taking over from Roberto Martinez as Portugal head coach. He has shown little sign of backing down, stating bluntly that “the focus has to be on the national team above all else”.