Portuguese Football Federation president, Pedro Proença, has expressed confidence that Cristiano Ronaldo can resolve his reported disagreement with national team coach Jorge Jesus, describing the forward as an important figure in the country’s football despite his recent suspension.
Proença spoke at a federation event in Funchal, Portugal, the birthplace of the 41-year-old captain, where he reaffirmed Ronaldo’s significance to the national team, according to reports on Monday.
“We are in the home of the greatest asset Portuguese football has ever produced: Cristiano Ronaldo, our captain,” Proença said.
“Our captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, is one of our key pieces,” he added.
The disagreement between Ronaldo and Jesus reportedly escalated during the recent international break following differences over playing time.
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward subsequently left the national team camp, leading the federation to provisionally suspend him while it reviewed the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The situation has raised concerns about Ronaldo’s immediate future with Portugal, but Proença’s remarks suggest the federation remains hopeful of reaching a resolution.
Ronaldo has reportedly indicated his readiness to accept any disciplinary measures the federation may impose after completing its review of the incident.
Despite the dispute, the forward has maintained his desire to continue playing for Portugal at international level.
