Ronaldo remains Portugal's 'greatest symbol' - Fernandes

Cristiano Ronaldo remains Portugal's greatest footballing figure despite leaving the squad this week after it was announced he would not start a match. Bruno Fernandes, a midfielder for Portugal, expressed this sentiment during a news conference, underscoring Ronaldo's lasting impact on the national team and football in Portugal.

Ronaldo, 41, departed after coach Jorge Jesus stated he would not start against Denmark in a Nations League match, which Portugal won 4-2 without him. The former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, both record figures. He played a pivotal role in helping Portugal win Euro 2016 and the Nations League twice. However, doubts now surround his international future.

Fernandes recalled speaking with Ronaldo and reiterated that he would always be viewed as the greatest symbol of not just the national team, but of Portuguese football and the country itself. "He has a reserved place not only among the best of all time, but also in the hearts of all Portuguese people," Fernandes said. He emphasized the importance of unity within the national team, urging that the team remains cohesive regardless of external discussions.

Portugal won the Nations League in 2019 and are the current holders after defeating Spain in the 2025 final on penalties. Ronaldo contributed to this by scoring in the 2-2 draw that preceded the penalty shootout. The team reached the last 16 in this summer's World Cup, but exited after a 1-0 loss to eventual champions Spain. Criticism was directed towards the previous manager, Roberto Martinez, for his reluctance to substitute Ronaldo despite underwhelming performances.

Jesus, who previously managed Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, took over from Martinez for the Nations League campaign. Portugal commenced with a convincing 1-0 home win over Wales, where Ronaldo played the first 67 minutes, but he was an unused substitute in the 2-1 victory against Norway and left the squad before facing Denmark. After three matches, Portugal sits atop Group A4 with nine points and will face Norway at home on Sunday.

The group phase concludes with a home match against Denmark on November 14 and a game in Wales on November 17. If they secure a top two finish, they would qualify for the quarter-finals in March, ahead of semi-finals and finals scheduled for June. Coach Jesus labeled Ronaldo a "symbol of Portugal" and stated there would be time to discuss him after the upcoming match against Norway.

"I’m going to focus on the team, on the opponent which is Norway, one of the five best teams in Europe," the 72-year-old coach said.