Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes denied any division within the national team following captain Cristiano Ronaldo’s unexpected departure from the squad, stressing that his teammates are focused on their UEFA Nations League matches and staying away from the controversy surrounding the team.
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Speaking at a press conference on Saturday ahead of Sunday’s match against Norway in Porto, Fernandes said he had spoken to Ronaldo after his departure from the camp, stressing that the captain’s status would not be affected by what happened.
“Whatever happens, Cristiano Ronaldo will never stop being the greatest icon of our national team, our football and our country,” Fernandes said.
The Manchester United captain added: “He has secured his place among the greatest players of all time, as well as in the hearts of all Portuguese people.”
The 41-year-old Ronaldo left Portugal’s training camp in Copenhagen last Wednesday, shortly after coach Jorge Jesus acknowledged that there had been tension between them and a day before Portugal’s 4-2 victory over Denmark.
The Al-Nassr forward later said in an Instagram post that he decided to leave following Jesus’ press conference and a conversation with Portuguese Football Federation President Pedro Proença. He added that he would reveal the reasons for his decision “at the right time.”
“There are no divisions”
Fernandes rejected suggestions that the national team had split into camps, with some players supporting Ronaldo and others backing Jesus.
“The most important thing is to stop creating problems. There are no divisions within the national team. We are one team and we will remain so, regardless of whatever noise comes from outside,” he said.
He added that the players had stayed away from the controversy surrounding the dispute, explaining that they had spent considerable time together in the dressing room and that what was happening outside the camp had not affected the group.
Fernandes also called on Portuguese fans to avoid taking sides in the dispute.
“The most important thing is that this ends well for both sides. I only ask that the country does not become divided and that people do not take sides, and that everyone is treated with respect,” he said.
Ronaldo’s sudden departure from the camp has raised questions about his international future as Portugal prepare to continue their UEFA Nations League campaign against Norway.
Resource: Al-Ghad
