Portugal midfielder Vitinha hopes Cristiano Ronaldo and national team coach Jorge Jesus can resolve their dispute so the veteran forward can return to the squad.
During the recent international break, Ronaldo, 41, walked out of the Portugal camp after falling out with Jorge Jesus over a lack of playing time.
Vitinha, who plays for Paris Saint-Germain, spoke to TNT Sports on Wednesday after his team’s 4-2 win at Manchester City. “It was a turbulent international break — full of high emotions,” he said.
“For my part, I just hope everything gets resolved for the best. I hope he [Ronaldo] returns and that everything turns out fine. The truth is, that’s what we all want. I hope he comes back and everything is sorted out.”
Ronaldo’s Response and Possible Punishment
Ronaldo later posted an apology to his teammates on social media. At the same time, the Al Nassr forward accused Jorge Jesus of “breaking his word” to him.
In his statement, Ronaldo said he would accept whatever punishment Portugal’s Football Federation (FPF) imposed, while adding that he still wanted to play for the national team. The FPF provisionally suspended the Portugal captain, but it has not announced a final punishment. Details of the disciplinary proceedings will remain confidential until the investigation concludes.
Ronaldo has scored a record 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal.
Vitinha played in all four of Portugal’s wins in their Nations League games during the international break. Portugal have two more matches to play in November, against Denmark and Wales.