Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes declared Cristiano Ronaldo remains the country's greatest footballing figure despite his recent departure from the squad. Ronaldo, 41, left after coach Jorge Jesus announced he would not start against Denmark in the Nations League, a match Portugal won 4-2 without him. Ronaldo holds record scorer stats for Portugal with 146 goals from 234 matches, contributing to Euro 2016 glory and back-to-back Nations League titles.
Fernandes emphasized at a news conference that Ronaldo will 'never cease to be the greatest symbol of our national team, of our football, and of the country.' He added that Ronaldo has a reserved place among the best globally and in Portuguese hearts. Fernandes stressed unity, stating there are no divisions in the national team despite external controversy. Portugal recently won the Nations League in 2025, with Ronaldo scoring in the final against Spain, and reached the World Cup last 16 before losing to eventual champions Spain.
Ronaldo played 67 minutes in Portugal's opening 1-0 win over Wales but was an unused substitute against Norway before leaving the squad.
Source: BBC Sport Football · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing