The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has reportedly initiated efforts to settle its dispute with Cristiano Ronaldo following the forward’s unexpected departure from the national team camp.
Spanish newspaper Marca, as cited by Goal, reports that FPF officials are planning to meet with Ronaldo next week, subject to his approval, in a bid to ease tensions and bring the parties involved, including head coach Jorge Jesus, back together.
The reported move signals a shift in the Federation’s approach after Ronaldo left Portugal’s camp in Copenhagen earlier this week, an incident that has sparked uncertainty over his international future.
According to Marca, the FPF is keen to repair its relationship with the Portugal captain and prevent the recent disagreement from bringing his international career to an early conclusion.
Federation officials are also said to believe that Ronaldo deserves a respectful and dignified conclusion to his time with the national team, considering his significant contribution to Portuguese football.
Following his departure, the FPF initially avoided addressing the dispute directly and instead stressed the team’s focus on its upcoming fixtures.
“The entire delegation remains fully focused on the national team’s upcoming commitments and achieving the defined objectives,” the Federation said in its statement.
Ronaldo has also indicated that he will eventually reveal why he chose to leave the camp.
“In due time, I will tell all Portuguese people the truth about the reasons that motivated me to leave the national team to which I have always dedicated myself. Now is the time to wish Portugal and all my teammates, without exception, good luck,” he wrote on social media.
The 41-year-old reportedly departed after tensions developed over his situation under Jesus. Portugal went on to beat Denmark 4-2 in the Nations League without Ronaldo, while his absence remained a major talking point surrounding the team.
According to Marca, the FPF is now looking to contain the situation and reopen communication between Ronaldo, Jesus and the national team.
The proposed meeting next week could give all sides an opportunity to discuss the disagreement, repair their relationship and consider the next steps regarding Ronaldo’s future with Portugal.
