‘Portugal’s greatest symbol’: Bruno Fernandes backs Cristiano Ronaldo despite walkout

Bruno Fernandes has said Cristiano Ronaldo remains “the greatest symbol” of the Portugal team, despite his decision to walk out on the squad this week.

Ronaldo said on Wednesday he had left the team camp after the Portugal coach, Jorge Jesus, said he would not start against Denmark. Portugal went on to win the Nations League contest 4-2 without him, and Ronaldo’s international future remains in doubt.

Manchester United midfielder Fernandes called for unity after a tumultuous few days in which Portugal fans’ opinions have been split over Ronaldo’s decision, and the future for their country’s leading goalscorer and most capped men’s player.

“Regarding Cristiano, I had a conversation with him, and what I told him, and what I repeat here, is this – the most important thing is that, regardless of what happens, Cristiano Ronaldo will never cease to be the greatest symbol of our national team, of our football, and of the country, for what he has done not only in Portugal but throughout the world,” Fernandes told reporters on Saturday.

“He has a reserved place not only among the best of all time, but also in the hearts of all Portuguese people, and the most important thing is that we stop dividing things,” Fernandes added. “There are no divisions in the national team, it is one and will remain so, despite any noise that may come from outside.”

“We are outside of this controversy, but what I ask is that the country does not divide itself, does not make choices, that it respects all sides At the same time, Cris is and will be the biggest icon of our national team, he deserves everyone’s respect, regardless of who likes him more or [who likes him] less.”

Portugal beat Norway 2-1 in Oslo last Sunday with Ronaldo an unused substitute, then prevailed 4-2 in Copenhagen after his departure from the squad, with Fernandes wearing the captain’s armband. The Nations League holders face Norway again on Sunday, this time in Porto.

Jorge Jesus, who managed Ronaldo at Saudi side Al-Nassr before taking the national team job, said the 41-year-old was a “symbol of Portugal,” adding that there would be time to speak about him after the Norway game.

“I’m going to focus on the team, on the opponent which is Norway, one of the five best teams in Europe. That’s the problem right now,” said the 72-year-old coach.