Vitinha Urges Ronaldo’s Return as Portugal’s Squad Faces Turbulence
PSG midfielder Vitinha speaks out amid Portugal’s internal drama
After finding the net in Paris Saint‑Germain’s 4‑2 triumph over Manchester City in the Champions League, Vitinha turned his attention to the controversy surrounding Portugal’s captain, Cristiano Ronaldo. The young midfielder, who has become a regular under coach Jorge Jesus, used a post‑match interview with TNT Sports Brasil to voice a simple wish: that the veteran striker re‑joins the national side and that the discord settles quickly.
What sparked the rift?
The friction began during the recent UEFA Nations League window. Ronaldo, left out of the starting eleven against Norway, chose to leave the squad’s base in Copenhagen before the second match against Denmark. His departure was followed by a public statement in which he accused the coach of breaking a promise, while also apologising to his teammates and confirming his willingness to continue representing Portugal.
Vitinha’s perspective
Speaking from a celebratory mood after the Champions League win, the 22‑year‑old said the break had been “troubled” and emotionally charged. He emphasized that everyone involved wants a positive resolution and that the team would benefit from Ronaldo’s presence. "I hope everything works out for the best and that he comes back," he told the Brazilian broadcaster.
Family and federation reactions
Ronaldo’s sister, Elma Aveiro, offered a more skeptical view, suggesting that a reunion with Jorge Jesus could be difficult after what she described as a sense of betrayal. In contrast, the Portuguese Football Federation remains hopeful. President Pedro Proença labelled the episode a misunderstanding that can still be cleared up, pointing to the upcoming Nations League fixtures in November – a clash with Denmark on the 14th and a game against Wales on the 17th – as the first realistic opportunity for Ronaldo to re‑enter the squad.
Former teammate weighs in
Wayne Rooney, who shared a dressing room with Ronaldo at Manchester United, criticised the captain’s decision to make the dispute public. On the "Stick to United" podcast he argued that airing grievances undermines both the coach and the rest of the squad, and warned that every player eventually faces the end of their international career.
Potential disciplinary outcome
The Portuguese federation has opened disciplinary proceedings, placing Ronaldo under a provisional suspension while the case is examined. Media reports suggest that any sanction could range from a two‑week ban to as much as six months, and a financial penalty may also be imposed.
Looking ahead
Portugal currently enjoys a flawless record of four wins in four matches under Jorge Jesus, but the Ronaldo saga looms large over the squad’s momentum. Vitinha’s call for reconciliation reflects a broader desire among the players to focus on football rather than off‑field drama. Whether the national team can bridge the divide before the November fixtures remains to be seen, but the sentiment from the young PSG midfielder is clear: the best outcome for Portugal is a united camp with its star striker back in the fold.
- Vitinha scored in PSG’s 4‑2 Champions League victory over Manchester City.
- Ronaldo left Portugal’s camp in Copenhagen after being benched against Norway.
- He later released a statement accusing coach Jorge Jesus of breaking his word, while apologising to teammates.
- Vitinha hopes Ronaldo returns and the issue is resolved.
- Ronaldo’s sister doubts a quick reconciliation; the federation remains optimistic.
- Wayne Rooney criticised Ronaldo’s public handling of the dispute.
- Disciplinary proceedings could result in a suspension of 15 days to six months, plus a fine.
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