Portugal Economy Minister calls Cristiano Ronaldo a national asset

Portugal’s Minister of Economy, Manuel Castro Almeida, has described Cristiano Ronaldo as a significant national asset, stating that his return to the national team would be beneficial for the country. Almeida noted that Ronaldo has an enormous impact on the perception of the ‘Portugal brand’ and that many people globally recognize the nation due to his presence.

The comments follow tensions between Ronaldo and national team coach Jorge Jesus. Reports indicate that Ronaldo left the national team training camp in Copenhagen after feeling betrayed by the coach. Following a match against Norway where Ronaldo was left on the bench, the coach reportedly promised a public apology that did not materialize, leading to Ronaldo’s departure from the squad.