The Portuguese Football Federation has thrown its support behind Cristiano Ronaldo’s continued involvement with the national team, describing the veteran forward as an enduring symbol of Portuguese football.
Federation president Pedro Proença said Ronaldo remains an important member of the national side whenever he is fit and available for selection, dismissing suggestions that his place in the squad should be questioned.
Speaking on the federation’s X account on Monday, Proença described Ronaldo as “the best player in history” and praised his more than two decades of service to Portugal.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is the best player in history. He has dedicated more than two decades to Portuguese football and is the ultimate symbol of Portuguese identity,” Proença said.
The federation chief also defended Ronaldo’s continued selection, saying the forward’s performances justify his presence in the national team.
“His presence with the national team is well-deserved thanks to his exceptional sporting abilities, and this is undeniable. He will always remain part of this group whenever he is fit and ready,” he added.
Ronaldo’s international journey has stretched across more than two decades. Since making his Portugal debut in 2003, he has developed into the country’s most recognisable footballer and has played a central role in some of its most important moments.
He captained Portugal to their first major international trophy at Euro 2016 and later helped the country win the inaugural UEFA Nations League in 2019. His longevity has also seen him become one of the most prolific goalscorers in international football.
At 39, Ronaldo remains determined to continue representing his country, with his international future once again attracting attention amid reports of a disagreement with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus.
Proença played down the reported tension, describing the situation between the two men as a misunderstanding that should be resolved within the national team setup.
“What happened between him and Jorge Jesus was simply a misunderstanding that needs to be resolved internally,” he said.
The federation president also stressed that Ronaldo remains firmly connected to the national team, pointing to his leadership role during Portugal’s recent fixtures.
“Cristiano is part of the national team; he is our icon, and he captained the team in the first of the four matches,” Proença said.
According to Proença, Ronaldo’s decision to continue playing for Portugal is largely driven by his attachment to the national team and the country he has represented since his teenage years.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is a Portuguese icon and an exceptional player. He could have ended his career at the World Cup, but he didn’t because of his love for his national team,” he said.
Proença added that he had personally witnessed the strong relationship between Ronaldo, Portugal’s supporters and the national team.
“I can attest to the bond he shares with the Portuguese people and our national team,” he said.
With Portugal’s recent run of four matches completed, Proença believes there is now an opportunity for Ronaldo and Jesus to settle their differences and move forward.
“Now that the four matches are over, we have the time and calm to sit down together and resolve the misunderstanding,” he said.
For now, the federation’s position is clear: Ronaldo remains part of Portugal’s plans whenever he is fit and selected by the coach.
After more than 20 years in the national colours, the forward’s eventual departure will mark the end of one of the longest and most influential chapters in Portuguese football. But for the moment, the Portuguese Football Federation says the door remains open for its iconic No. 7 to continue leading the national team.