Portugal midfielder Vitinha has called for Cristiano Ronaldo and national team coach Jorge Jesus to resolve their dispute so the veteran forward can return to the squad.
During the recent international break, Ronaldo, 41, walked out of the Portugal camp after falling out with Jorge Jesus over a lack of playing time. Ronaldo later posted an apology to his teammates on social media, but he also accused Jorge Jesus of “breaking his word” to him.
“It was a turbulent international break, full of high emotions,” Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Vitinha told TNT Sports on Wednesday, after his team’s 4-2 win at Manchester City.
“For my part, I just hope everything gets resolved for the best. I hope he [Ronaldo] returns and that everything turns out fine. The truth is, that’s what we all want. I hope he comes back and everything is sorted out.”
Ronaldo’s statement and the federation’s response
In his statement, Ronaldo said he would accept whatever punishment was imposed by Portugal’s Football Federation (FPF), while adding that he still wanted to play for the national team.
The FPF has provisionally suspended the Portugal captain. No final punishment has been announced, and the federation has said details of the disciplinary proceedings will remain confidential until the investigation has concluded.
Ronaldo’s record and the upcoming fixtures
Ronaldo has scored a record 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal.
Vitinha played in all four of Portugal’s wins in their Nations League games during the international break. Portugal have two more matches to come, against Denmark and Wales in November.