Fernandes said he recently spoke with Ronaldo and personally expressed his admiration for his former Portugal teammate.
According to a statement shared by football journalist Fabrizio Romano on X on Saturday, Fernandes said: “I spoke with Cristiano Ronaldo and told him that he is and will always remain the greatest icon of our national team and our country.”
The midfielder also dismissed suggestions that there are divisions within the Portuguese national team, insisting that the squad remains united.
“Our national team is united, not divided,” Fernandes said.
Fernandes added that issues involving the team should be handled internally, with the objective of reaching a positive resolution for everyone involved.
“Matters must be resolved internally and conclude well for both parties,” he added.
The comments come amid renewed attention on Ronaldo’s role and influence within the Portuguese national team, with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner remaining one of the most prominent figures in the country’s football history.
Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus also recently stressed Ronaldo’s importance to the national team, describing the veteran forward as a symbol of both Portugal and its national side.
“I can’t ignore Cristiano Ronaldo topic. Cris is a symbol of the Portuguese national team. He is a symbol of Portugal. Let that be absolutely clear,” Jesus said.
Jesus, however, declined to elaborate further at the time, indicating that there would be an opportunity to discuss the matter in greater detail after the match.
“After the game, answering the question, there will be plenty of time to talk about that,” the Portugal coach added.
Fernandes’ remarks further underline the continued respect for Ronaldo within the Portuguese national team as the veteran forward remains an influential figure in the country's footballing landscape.
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