Portugal Football Federation president Pedro Proença still believes Cristiano Ronaldo is “a key player” for the national team. He is confident the captain will resolve his dispute with coach Jorge Jesus and return to the squad.
During the recent international break, Ronaldo, 41, walked out of the Portugal camp after falling out with Jesus over a lack of playing time.
The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) provisionally suspended Ronaldo, but it has not announced a final punishment.
Proença: “Our captain is one of our key pieces”
Proença spoke at a meeting in the town hall of Funchal, Ronaldo’s birthplace, during an FPF event.
“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.”
At the meeting, Proença also expressed optimism that Ronaldo can solve his differences with Jesus. Jesus coached the veteran last season at Al Nassr, where they won the Saudi Pro League.
Ronaldo’s statement
Shortly after leaving the national team, Ronaldo posted a statement accusing Jesus of “breaking his word” to him.
In the same statement, Ronaldo said he would accept whatever punishment the FPF imposed. He added that he still wanted to play for the national team.
Portugal have two UEFA Nations matches to come, against Denmark and Wales in November.