Bruno Fernandes has declared Cristiano Ronaldo remains Portugal’s greatest icon – despite the striker walking out on the team.The 41-year-old’s international career could be at an end after he departed the Euro 2016 champions’ training camp midweek.Fernandes remains supportive of Ronaldo, as he urged Portugal fans to not be divided by his exitGettyIn last week’s 2-1 win away at Norway, Ronaldo was an unused substitute.It was the first time in 18 years that the veteran forward had been left on the bench for Portugal.Ronaldo subsequently issued a bombshell statement on social media to announce his exit – vowing to ‘tell the truth’ regarding his decision.Portuguese journalist Pedro Sepulveda told talkSPORT in the aftermath that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner had been lied to about his game time by boss Jorge Jesus.While many fans have been left hurt and disappointed by Ronaldo’s shock exit, Fernandes has come to his defence – hailing him for what he has achieved for Portugal.The world’s most capped international player with 234 outings and top scorer with 146 goals, Ronaldo helped his side win the European Championship and two Nations League titles.Insisting that Ronaldo has not tarnished his legacy, Fernandes, who also played with the ex-Sporting Lisbon man at Manchester United, has implored supporters to not be divided by the news.What has Bruno Fernandes said about Ronaldo?Revealing he is still in direct communication with Ronaldo ahead of Sunday’s return meeting with Norway, Fernandes said: “Regarding Cristiano, I had a conversation with him.“What I told him, and what I repeat here, is regardless of what happens, Cristiano Ronaldo will never cease to be the greatest symbol of our national team, of our football, and of the country, for what he has done not only in Portugal but throughout the world.“He has a reserved place not only among the best of all time, but also in the hearts of all Portuguese people, and the most important thing is that we stop dividing things.Ronaldo, who is four goals shy of 150 international goals, could be banned over decision to walk outGetty“There are no divisions in the national team. It is one and will remain so, despite any noise that may come from outside.“We are outside of this controversy, but what I ask is that the country does not divide itself, does not make choices, that it respects all sides.“Cris is and will be the biggest icon of our national team, he deserves everyone’s respect, regardless of who likes him more or [who likes him] less.”Fernanded also remarked: “Matters must be resolved internally and conclude well for both parties.”Could Ronaldo ever play for Portugal again?It now remains to be seen whether the Real Madrid and Manchester United will ever play for Portugal again.He faces a possible six-month banishment by the Portuguese Football Federation if he is found guilty of abandoning the national team.The last time Ronaldo was an unused sub for Portugal came at Euro 2008AFPAnd with his contract to expire at Al Nassr at the end of the 2026/27 season, Ronaldo could decide to call time on his glittering career upon the expiration of his deal.How have Portugal fared in the Nations League?Portugal have won all three of their opening matches, and remain on course to reach the Finals in 2027.Jesus’ side are the defending champions having triumphed over Spain in the final in 2025 under Roberto Martinez’s tutelage – which saw Ronaldo get on the score sheet.They also won the inaugural competition in 2019 – beating the Netherlands 1-0.