“Cristiano is our icon”: Portugal FA chief backs Ronaldo amid Jesus dispute

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Portuguese Football Federation President Pedro Proença has reaffirmed Cristiano Ronaldo’s place in the national team, describing the veteran forward as an enduring symbol of Portuguese football and identity.

Proença said Ronaldo’s continued involvement with the national team was justified by his exceptional ability and more than two decades of service to Portuguese football.

“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 said.

The federation chief also sought to play down tensions reportedly involving Ronaldo and national team coach Jorge Jesus, describing their disagreement as a misunderstanding that should be handled internally.

“What happened between him and Jorge Jesus was simply a misunderstanding that needs to be resolved internally,” he said.

According to Proença, Ronaldo remains an integral member of the national team and had already demonstrated his commitment by captaining Portugal in the first of four matches.

“Cristiano is part of the national team; he is our icon, and he captained the team in the first of the four matches,” he said.

Proença further highlighted Ronaldo’s decision to continue representing Portugal despite having the option of ending his international career at the World Cup.

“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,” he said.

The federation president said Ronaldo’s connection with Portugal extends beyond his performances on the pitch, stressing the strong bond between the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, the Portuguese public and the national team.

“I can attest to the bond he shares with the Portuguese people and our national team,” Proença said.

With the four matches now completed, Proença said there was an opportunity for all parties to address the disagreement away from the pressures of an active match schedule.

“Now that the four matches are over, we have the time and calm to sit down together and resolve the misunderstanding,” he said.

Proença maintained that Ronaldo’s contribution to Portuguese football has secured his place in the country’s football legacy, while ultimately leaving decisions about his selection to the national team’s coach.

“Cristiano is part of our legacy, and he will always be here whenever the coach wants him,” he said.