The Portuguese Football Federation has reaffirmed its support for Cristiano Ronaldo to continue representing Portugal, with federation president Pedro Proença describing the veteran forward as an icon of Portuguese football.   Proença said Ronaldo remains an important member of the national team whenever he is fit and available, while defending his continued selection based on his performances. “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 in a statement shared on the federation’s X account on Monday. He added that Ronaldo’s place in the squad was justified by his sporting ability and that the forward would remain part of the team whenever he was fit and ready. The federation chief also addressed reports of a disagreement between Ronaldo and Portugal coach Jorge Jesus, describing the issue as a misunderstanding that should be resolved internally. “What happened between him and Jorge Jesus was simply a misunderstanding that needs to be resolved internally,” Proença said. According to Proença, Ronaldo remains firmly connected to the national team and captained Portugal in the first of four matches. He also pointed to Ronaldo’s decision to continue playing for Portugal as evidence of his strong attachment to the national team. Proença said Ronaldo could have ended his international career at the World Cup but chose to continue because of his love for Portugal. With the four matches completed, the federation president said there was now time for Ronaldo and Jesus to resolve their differences. “Now that the four matches are over, we have the time and calm to sit down together and resolve the misunderstanding,” he said. Proença concluded that Ronaldo remains part of Portugal’s football legacy and would continue to be available whenever the coach wanted him. The development comes amid continued uncertainty over the 41-year-old forward’s international future, with Portugal preparing for the next phase of his career with the national team.