Portugal: Jorge Jesus opens the door to Cristiano Ronaldo!
On the eve of the clash against Norway, Jorge Jesus once again mentioned Cristiano Ronaldo and raised hopes of a possible return.
The Cristiano Ronaldo saga continues to stir up Portugal. Three days after the 4-2 victory in Denmark without their long-serving captain, Jorge Jesus was once again asked about the situation involving the 41-year-old forward, who left the squad after struggling with his status during the first two matches.
Cristiano Ronaldo had confirmed his departure from the national team, promising to “tell the truth” about the reasons behind his decision. On the eve of Portugal vs Norway, however, Jorge Jesus did not close the door on a future reconciliation.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is a symbol of Portugal”
Asked about a possible reconciliation with his all-time leading scorer, the Portuguese manager chose to bide his time while paying tribute to CR7.
“We have to focus on the national team, on the match against Norway, on what we need to do well, in harmony with our people. But that doesn’t stop me from thinking about him. He is a symbol of the Portuguese national team, he is a symbol of Portugal, let that be clear. After the match, we will have time to talk about it.”
Jorge Jesus had already promised to address the matter publicly once the final match of the international window had been played. His latest statement confirms that a more complete explanation is expected after the game against Norway.
Bruno Fernandes wants a way out of the crisis
Captain and provider of an assist in the victory in Denmark, Bruno Fernandes also spoke out. The Manchester United midfielder said he had spoken directly with Cristiano Ronaldo since his departure.
“I spoke with Cristiano Ronaldo and told him that he is and will always remain the biggest icon of our national team and our country. Our national team is united, not divided. The issues must be resolved internally and end well for both parties.”
The Portuguese midfielder’s message therefore echoes that of Jorge Jesus: despite the crisis, no one appears willing to portray the split as permanent.
Portugal move on without their all-time leading scorer
While they await a possible reconciliation, the Seleção must finish the international window without Ronaldo. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who has scored 146 goals for Portugal, remained on the bench for all 90 minutes of the 2-1 victory in Norway before leaving the squad after learning that he would not start against Denmark either.
Sunday’s meeting with the Norwegians could now come before a decisive moment. Jorge Jesus has promised to speak after the match, and the coming hours could finally provide more clarity on Cristiano Ronaldo’s future with the Seleção.
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