Pedro Proença addresses Cristiano Ronaldo's departure from Portugal squad

Pedro Proença, president of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), has characterized Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent departure from the national team camp as a ‘misunderstanding’ that will be resolved internally. The 41-year-old captain left the team training camp in Copenhagen 24 hours before a Nations League match against Denmark, following tensions involving coach Jorge Jesus.

Proença defended Ronaldo, describing him as an ‘extraordinary player’ and a national icon, expressing hope that the captain will return to the squad for matches in November. While Proença sought to downplay the incident, Sporting Braga president António Salvador criticized Ronaldo’s decision, suggesting the departure was not a well-reflected action and may have been made in the heat of the moment.

Ronaldo has indicated via social media that he spoke with Proença before leaving and promised to reveal the full truth regarding his motivations in due course. The incident follows a period of friction, including Ronaldo’s dissatisfaction after remaining on the bench during a match against Norway.