Portugal football federation throws support behind Ronaldo amid Jesus row
by Adenle Ahmed Abiola · The Eagle OnlineThe Portuguese Football Federation (PFF) has reaffirmed its backing for Cristiano Ronaldo’s continued involvement with the national team, with its president, Pedro Proença, describing the veteran forward as an icon of Portuguese football.
Proença, in a post on the PFF’s X handle on Monday, said Ronaldo remained an important member of the national team whenever he was fit and available for selection.
The federation president said: “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 also defended Ronaldo’s continued selection, saying his performances justified his place in the squad.
He added: “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.”
He further addressed the reported disagreement between Ronaldo and Portugal coach Jorge Jesus, describing it as a misunderstanding that should be resolved within the team.
Proença said: “What happened between him and Jorge Jesus was simply a misunderstanding that needs to be resolved internally.”
The federation chief stressed that Ronaldo remained closely connected to the national team and pointed to his role as captain in the first of Portugal’s four matches.
He said: “Cristiano is part of the national team; he is our icon, and he captained the team in the first of the four matches.”
According to Proença, Ronaldo’s decision to continue playing for Portugal demonstrated his strong attachment to the national team.
He said: “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.”
Proença added that he had personally witnessed the bond between Ronaldo, the Portuguese public and the national team.
Also Read
- ICPC, AGF ask court to dismiss El-Rufai’s N1b rights suit
- Two killed, three injured as gunmen attack community guards in Plateau
- 2027: CityBoy Movement pledges two million votes for Tinubu in Ogun, backs YAYI
- Portugal football federation throws support behind Ronaldo amid Jesus row
- Adeboye prayed for me, expressed confidence in my triumph, says Sowore after RCCG visit
He said: “I can attest to the bond he shares with the Portuguese people and our national team.”
With the four matches completed, Proença said there was now an opportunity for Ronaldo and Jesus to settle their differences.
He said: “Now that the four matches are over, we have the time and calm to sit down together and resolve the misunderstanding.”
Proença concluded by maintaining that Ronaldo remained part of Portugal’s football legacy and that his future with the national team remained open.
He said: “Cristiano is part of our legacy, and he will always be here whenever the coach wants him.”
[wpadcenter_ad id='745970' align='none']