The Portuguese Football Federation has thrown its weight behind Cristiano Ronaldo’s continued involvement with the national team, with president Pedro Proença describing the veteran forward as an enduring icon of Portuguese football.
Proença said Ronaldo remains an important member of the national team whenever he is fit and available for selection, while defending the forward’s place in the squad based on his performances.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is the best player in history. He has dedicated more than two decades to Portuguese football and is the ultimate symbol of Portuguese identity,” Proença said in a post on the federation’s X account on Monday.
He added that Ronaldo’s presence in the squad remains justified by his sporting quality and contribution to the national team.
“His presence with the national team is well-deserved thanks to his exceptional sporting abilities, and this is undeniable. He will always remain part of this group whenever he is fit and ready,” Proença said.
The federation president also addressed reports of a disagreement between Ronaldo and Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus, describing the situation as a misunderstanding that should be resolved internally.
“What happened between him and Jorge Jesus was simply a misunderstanding that needs to be resolved internally,” he said.
Proença stressed that Ronaldo remains firmly connected to the national team, noting that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner captained Portugal in the first of their four matches.
“Cristiano is part of the national team; he is our icon, and he captained the team in the first of the four matches,” Proença said.
According to the federation president, Ronaldo’s decision to continue representing Portugal demonstrates his strong attachment to the national team.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is a Portuguese icon and an exceptional player. He could have ended his career at the World Cup, but he didn’t because of his love for his national team,” he added.
Proença said he had personally witnessed the bond between Ronaldo, the Portuguese public and the national team.
“I can attest to the bond he shares with the Portuguese people and our national team,” he said.
With the four matches now completed, Proença believes there is an opportunity for Ronaldo and Jesus to settle their differences.
“Now that the four matches are over, we have the time and calm to sit down together and resolve the misunderstanding,” he said.
The federation president concluded by reiterating that Ronaldo remains an important part of Portugal’s football legacy and that his future with the national team remains open.
“Cristiano is part of our legacy, and he will always be here whenever the coach wants him,” Proença said.
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