Portugal federation says Ronaldo remains available for national team

The Portuguese Football Federation has reaffirmed its support for Cristiano Ronaldo’s continued involvement with the national team, with president Pedro Proença saying the forward remains available whenever he is fit and ready to play. In comments posted on the federation president’s X account, Proença described Ronaldo as an icon of Portuguese football and said his selection was justified by his sporting performances. He said the forward had devoted more than two decades to Portugal and remained a symbol of the country’s football identity.

“His presence with the national team is well-deserved thanks to his exceptional sporting abilities,” Proença said, adding that Ronaldo would remain part of the group whenever he was fit and available. Proença also addressed reports of a disagreement between Ronaldo and Portugal coach Jorge Jesus. He characterised the issue as a misunderstanding and said it should be dealt with internally.

With the team’s four matches completed, he said there was now time for the two men to meet and resolve the matter. The federation president pointed to Ronaldo’s role as captain in Portugal’s first match of the four-game sequence as evidence of his continuing connection with the team. He said Ronaldo’s decision to continue representing the country reflected his attachment to the national side.

Proença added that Ronaldo could have ended his international career at the World Cup but chose not to do so because of his affection for Portugal. He said the forward remained part of the country’s football legacy and would be present whenever the coach wanted him. The comments leave Ronaldo’s future with Portugal open, subject to his fitness and the coach’s selection decisions.