Portugal's Football Federation president Pedro Proença still believes Cristiano Ronaldo is "a key player" for the national team and is confident the captain will resolve his dispute with Jorge Jesus and return to the squad.
During the recent international break, Ronaldo, 41, walked out of the Portugal camp after falling out with national team coach Jorge Jesus over a lack of playing time. The country's Football Federation (FPF) provisionally suspended Ronaldo, but no final punishment has been announced.
Speaking at a meeting in the town hall of Funchal, Ronaldo's birthplace, during an FPF event, Proença said: "We are in the home of the greatest asset Portuguese football has ever produced: Cristiano Ronaldo, our captain." He added: "Our captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, is one of our key pieces."
At the meeting, Proença expressed optimism that Ronaldo can solve his differences with Jorge Jesus, who coached the veteran last season at Al Nassr, winning the Saudi Pro League. Ronaldo posted a statement shortly after leaving the national team accusing Jorge Jesus of "breaking his word" to him. In the same statement, he said he would accept whatever punishment the FPF imposed while adding that he still wanted to play for the national team.
Portugal have two UEFA Nations League matches to come, against Denmark and Wales in November.
Source: ESPN Soccer · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing