From BBC Sport · · 1m 10s
Ronaldo's Portugal Symbol Status
Bruno Fernandes calls Ronaldo Portugal's greatest symbol despite absence.
In brief
Bruno Fernandes calls Ronaldo Portugal's greatest symbol despite absence. Bruno Fernandes says Cristiano Ronaldo remains Portugal's greatest footballing symbol despite leaving the squad. Originally reported by BBC Sport.
Bruno Fernandes statement
Bruno Fernandes said Cristiano Ronaldo remains Portugal's greatest footballing figure despite leaving the squad this week.
Ronaldo's international record
Ronaldo has scored 146 goals from 234 matches with Portugal, both record figures, helping them win Euro 2016 and the Nations League twice.
Fernandes' direct quote
Fernandes said: 'Cris is and will be the biggest icon of our national team, he deserves everyone's respect, regardless of who likes him more or less'.
“Cris is and will be the biggest icon of our national team, he deserves everyone's respect, regardless of who likes him more or less”
Portugal's Nations League win
Portugal won the Nations League in 2019 and are current holders after beating Spain in the 2025 final on penalties.
Ronaldo's recent matches
Ronaldo played 67 minutes in Portugal's 1-0 home win over Wales but was unused substitute in 2-1 away victory over Norway.
Next steps for Portugal
Portugal play Norway at home on Sunday, then Denmark on 14 November, aiming for quarter-finals in March.
The headline
Bruno Fernandes says Cristiano Ronaldo remains Portugal's greatest footballing symbol despite leaving the squad.
