Pedro Proença said he still believes Cristiano Ronaldo can settle his dispute with coach Jorge Jesus and return to the Portugal national team. The president of the Portuguese Football Federation made the remarks at a federation event in Funchal town hall, in the city where Ronaldo was born.
Remarks in Funchal
Proença said: "We are in the home of the greatest asset Portuguese football has ever produced: Cristiano Ronaldo, our captain."
According to ESPN, he added: "Our captain Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the fundamental elements of our team."
Dispute and suspension
Ronaldo walked out of the Portugal camp during the latest international break after falling out with Jorge Jesus. The federation then handed Ronaldo a temporary suspension and has yet to announce his final punishment.
Soon after leaving the camp, Ronaldo released a statement accusing Jorge Jesus of having "broken his promise" to him.
Ronaldo's position and remaining fixtures
Ronaldo confirmed he would accept any punishment from the federation while insisting he still wants to play for his country.
Portugal have two Nations League matches left, against Denmark and Wales in November.