Vitinha has called for Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus to resolve their differences, saying the national team wants its captain back after a turbulent international break.
The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder spoke after Portugal were left dealing with the fallout from Ronaldo’s departure from the national team camp following a disagreement with Jesus over his playing time.
Ronaldo, 41, later apologised to his team-mates but accused Jesus of breaking his word over an agreement concerning his involvement in Portugal’s matches. The Portuguese Football Federation has provisionally suspended the forward while disciplinary proceedings continue.
Speaking to TNT Sports after PSG’s 4-2 victory over Manchester City on Thursday, Vitinha described the international break as difficult for the squad.
“It was a turbulent international break, full of high emotions,” he said.
Vitinha made clear that he hoped the dispute would be settled and Ronaldo would return to the national team.
“For my part, I just hope everything gets resolved for the best. I hope he [Ronaldo] returns and that everything turns out fine. The truth is, that’s what we all want. I hope he comes back and everything is sorted out,” he added.
The disagreement escalated after Ronaldo left the Portugal camp ahead of the Nations League match against Denmark. The forward said Jesus had broken promises concerning his playing time and how the situation would be explained publicly.
Ronaldo subsequently apologised to his team-mates and said he would accept any punishment imposed by the federation. He also insisted that he remained willing to represent Portugal after serving any suspension.
The FPF has begun disciplinary proceedings, with the final decision still pending. The case has also drawn criticism from former Manchester United team-mate Wayne Rooney, who questioned Ronaldo’s decision to leave the camp.
Portugal have two more international fixtures scheduled for November, against Denmark and Wales. Vitinha’s comments underline the hope within the squad that the dispute can be resolved before those matches.
