Portugal Football Federation Clarifies Position on Cristiano Ronaldo's International Future

At a news conference in Funchal, Proenca praised Ronaldo as an extraordinary figure in Portuguese soccer while promoting the FPF's initiatives to strengthen ties with local communities. This visit coincided with the signing of a cooperation agreement involving the FPF, the Funchal municipality, and the Madeira Football Association. "We are in the land of the greatest asset that Portuguese football has ever created: Cristiano Ronaldo, our captain," Proenca stated, as reported by Record. He stressed the significance of local engagement, noting, "There is no football in Portugal without the movement of the municipalities."

This meeting was the FPF's eighth decentralized board gathering and its first held outside mainland Portugal. However, it also renewed attention on Ronaldo's unresolved position within the national team. Proenca clarified the federation's stance regarding Ronaldo's return, expressing that they wish to have the 41-year-old forward back in the national squad as soon as possible. He indicated that both the coach and Ronaldo are eager for this, contingent on the player's fitness.

"What we are witnessing at this moment is a desire, first from the Portuguese Football Federation, to have the captain back with us quickly," Proenca explained. He added that the coach is willing to welcome Ronaldo back, and the captain himself has expressed a desire to continue representing Portugal. The federation president called for calm, stating, "This is the moment to appeal for calm and serenity. We are doing our job because the desire is collective."

Looking ahead, Proenca's comments suggest that Portugal aims to address the situation without letting the dispute hinder their sporting goals. The upcoming November international window, which includes matches against Denmark and Wales, could serve as a potential opportunity for Ronaldo’s return, provided the disciplinary process is resolved. The federation's objective is to reach a resolution through dialogue, while respecting the necessary disciplinary procedures.